Jerry H. Derry

Tag : Jerry Can
Age 61, from Oakland, Oregon died Tuesday, July 8, 2008. BornFebruary 2, 1947, in Akron, Ohio, he was raised by his Grandma andGrandpa Walton. He married Susan J. Derry, on May 12th, 1979, inAkron, Ohio. They joyfully welcomed their boys Matt and Danny intothe world and his love and commitment to his sons was central tohis life. Jerry was an avid reader and his own love for learningled him to become a teacher. His childhood wasnt easy, yet hisresiliency allowed him to have special compassion and connection tothe kids that "slipped through the cracks". He taught foryears in public schools then worked at Wolf Creek Job Corps. Morerecently, hes been called "our favorite substituteteacher" and "the guy to call if you want a great painterfor your house." Jerry served our country in Vietnam and wasawarded two purple hearts. His passion poured out of him as hespoke his mind and unapologetically challenged others to do thesame. He was a very generous man who was quick to lend a helpinghand. He coached multiple basketball, soccer, track & field andchess teams throughout many years. He was an avid supporter of theOakers athletic program and touched the lives of countless youth.Jerry is survived by his wife, Susan; their two sons, Matt andDanny; his sister, Lina Scanlan and her husband, and son, Tim andSteve. He also has 4 sisters-in-law; their families and his dog,Henry Bobbins. The "Celebration of Life" service will beheld on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at Washington Gym 537 NE Locust St.Oakland. It will begin with a "JD coffee break" at 9:30a.m. followed by a service and a potluck. In lieu of flowers,donations can be made to "JD Education Fund" Oregon FirstCommunity Credit Union. Jerrys departure has left a big hole inour lives and hearts, but we will keep the mantra alive "Jerryis cool.