To: Tina & Family. I met Gerald in the early 1980's and always had the utmost admiration for his dedication to his firefighting career.  I wish to extend my true condolences for your loss. William M. Glime Sgt, MSP; RET

I did not work with Gerald as long or as closely as some, but in fifteen or so years, I never heard him raise his voice or lose his temper. He was calm and thoughtful in all things. In a highly stressful and difficult line of work, those are some of the best qualities to have. I have no doubt he was the same away from work as well, and a blessing to his friends and family. A good man, gone too soon. Peace be with his family.

Gerald always had the biggest smile on his face. It seemed like his natural expression was a genuine smile. If there was disagreement in the group, Gerald was the one who tried to find a reasonable solution that everyone could live with. I'm sorry to hear about his passing. He was a good man.

I remember meeting Gerald back in 2002 while working at Blackwater NWR. He immediately took me under his wing and started to pour into me and mentor me as a young firefighter. I knew he was different than most. He put others first and truly was a selfless man. I spent years away from the area and when I came back in 2010, once again Gerald welcomed me with open arms. His influence on my life is hard to put in words. The influence he had on so many of us in the fire community was so positive and powerful. He built us up and was a catalyst to create more effective programs and the bonds we formed were life long. I watched Gerald for years navigate difficult situations and he did it with such grace and confidence. He was the glue that binds us all together.  I will never forget how every morning we were to travel together he would show up to my house at least 10-15 minutes early and patiently wait for me to say goodbye to my girls. He valued family and friends!! He also challenged me to eat some really spicy hot wings and watched me cry as I would not stop and wanted to prove to him and the other firefighters that I could do it.  I can't say enough about how much he impacted my world in a positive way and how much he impacted the entire fire community. He was missed the moment he retired and he will be missed even more now.  Heaven is going to be an even better place now that he has joined the ranks and is walking the shore lines with the angels. Thank you friend for your selfless way of life and for always putting others first.

I am very saddened by Gerry's passing. What a great guy! I worked with him while he was employed with the Maryland Forest Service. We spent 17 hours straight driving to the wildfires in Florida in 1998 and then roomed together in a hotel for the following two weeks. We got along great. He was always so upbeat and enjoyable to be with.  We were on the Maryland Fire Staff together and I remember helping him instruct several fire trainings over the years. He would always return the favor and help me, as well. We went on numerous firefighting assignments in the Western U.S., too, and I'll always remember the great times I had with Gerry. He was the consummate professional. I believe what I will miss most is his friendship and kindness and his infectious smile and sense of humor. The world needs more of these traits. We are all better people for knowing Gerry. I extend my deepest sympathy to Tina and Gerry's family and friends. I'm looking forward to seeing Gerry in Heaven. God bless you all.

Gerald was an amazing mentor to me when I was a newby in the fire program. I first met Gerald on a prescribed fire detail where he was an amazing teacher, supporter and guide. I will always remember his kindness, knowledge, humor and desire to bring new folks into the fire fold.

I am so sorry to hear about my old classmate, football teammate and friend. I have not seen Gerald for many years but will always remember his sense of humor and his quiet demeanor. It was great to know Gerald, God bless his family in these trying times.

Sincerely Tom Berry Class of 76

Allen Carter had the vision to hire both Gerald and I with the US Fish and Wildlife & Service.

I worked with Gerald for 20 years at the US Fish and Wildlife Service.  He was my best friend.  Our paths met in 2002 when we both start working for the USFWS midway through our careers with other agencies.  After meeting Gerald, we both learned that both of us had been on the Great Yellowstone Fires of 1988 but with different state agencies.  He was most proud of introducing prescribed fire to the USFWS National Conservation Training Center in WV and achieving Safety Officer Type 1 on his redcard.  Gerald taught me the value of teaching fire training courses, and the fine taste of a cold Coors Light.  I taught Gerald the importance of knowing the fire budget, and singing Karaoke after having a few of those Coors Lights.  Gerald retired a few months before me, and I cried as we shook hands to say goodbye.  I cried again after learning of his passing.  May Gerald's family find peace and happiness as time moves on.   
My deepest condolences.  Steven Hubner.

Vickers was a true mentor to me in the fire program for USFWS. Always made me feel welcomed and encouraged me. He even tolerated toting around my toddlers while my husband and I pack tested. None of us will ever forget those times. A great man.

Tina and family I was so shocked when I saw this. I went to school with him and you took ceramics from my Mother.  may you find peace during this extremely hard time. We will always think about and miss you.

I knew and worked with Gerald for quite a number of years (USFWS). He was an individual that you immediately liked, a good firefighter, and safety officer. He took the time to make others feel important. Rest in peace and my best wishes to the family.

Tina,
May you and your family  find peace and comfort during this difficult time. Whenever I asked about Mr. Gerald, your face lit up. “Kara, I love my husband!” I’m sure he knew. You expressed it in the way you cared for him.  Rest in the Holy Spirit as he provides comfort, strength and understanding. May God continue to bless you. ❤️

Kara N. Troy
Allendale County Emergency Management Agency, Allendale, SC

Kevin, so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.  🙏

I knew Gerald when he was a part of the Northeast Region U.S. Fish and Wildlife service fire management team.  He was always  friendly and outgoing, and willing to take on a variety of tasks, both within the agency and as part of the interagency fire community.  My condolences go out to his family and all those who were privileged to work with him.

It was my honor and privilege to have known, even though it was briefly, Gerald. A good man that is and will be sorely missed. His gentle, quiet demeanor and quick smile always made one feel welcomed.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Gerald William Vickers Jr.

20 août 1958 – 7 octobre 2025

Bounds Funeral Home

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