Raised in Baltimore, MD, he was the eldest of three brothers. After graduating high school, Jerry went on to attend Calvert Hall College. He later moved to New York City and attended the Julliard School, where he earned a Master's Degree. He subsequently played trombone in the Montreal Symphony under the Baton of Zubin Mehta.
While in Montreal, Jerry met his future wife, Rita, and took up flying. Everyone around him knew early on that a second career was emerging. That career blossomed at Mercer County Community College, where he worked in the aviation program as an instructor, and in the classroom as an educator until his retirement.
Jerry was predeceased by his loving wife of 42 years, Rita (nee St. Jean); youngest brother, Thomas; and by his parents: Thomas and Mary (nee Shenton).
Surviving are Jerry's brother, Frank and his wife Bonnie; his nieces: Jennifer, Erin, and Nicole; and his nephew: Matthew.
