Jerry Douglas Randall

Jerry was born on June 9, 1947 in Bemiston, a mill town in Talladega, Alabama. Within this self-contained community. Jerry grew up playing on the local baseball team, camping with his friends, and perfecting his roller skating moves at the local rec center.

At 19 Jerry married the love of his life, Bernice, and soon after joined the United States Navy; beginning the first of a lifetime of adventures. During his years in the Navy, Jerry became a father (and later a grandfather), traveled the world, and was promoted through the ranks to Senior Chief. Jerry, Bernice, and their son Ric lived all over the US during his time in the Navy, but their favorite was Hawaii. While Jerry spent much of his time out at sea, he made the most of his time ashore. He spent time exploring their new homes, making friends, and coaching Ric’s little league team.

After retiring from the Navy, Jerry began a career in the TV business that spanned nearly 20 years. He was an early adopter of technology and his love of computers made him a great fit for Broadcast Engineering. He went on to retire from Fox Channel 30 in Jacksonville, Florida as Chief Engineer.

Retirement didn’t slow Jerry down. He and Bernice would plan and travel extensively, taking his motorcycle all over the southeastern US. They rode hundreds of miles through the mountains, along the beaches, and anywhere the mood took them. Some of their favorite destinations were the Outer Banks of North Carolina, the Blue Ridge parkway in the Smoky Mountains, and wherever they were going next. When he wasn’t traveling, Jerry also spent time volunteering. He spent 10 years with the USO and information desk at the Jacksonville Airport, where he put two of his best skills to use: Talking to and helping people.

Next to his family, Jerry’s greatest love was the church. He served officially as a Sunday School Teacher and Director, and as a Deacon. Unofficially, he served as Senior Trip planner, bus driver, and helping hand to anyone who needed it.

Jerry’s favorite food was Bernice’s cooking, especially Thanksgiving. His favorite sports team was the Florida State Seminoles, his granddaughter’s alma mater. He liked listening to Glen Miller’s music, the color purple, learning about history, and sharing a love of motorcycle riding with his son Ric.

Jerry leaves a legacy of joyful curiosity, dedication to service, and unconditional love of family.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Albert Randall and Syble Hollingsworth Randall, and his brother Tommy Randall. He is survived by his wife Bernice Crim Randall, son Richard Randall, granddaughter Amanda Randall, sister Elaine Randall East (Don), five nephews, other relatives and many friends.

A visitation for Jerry will be held Tuesday, December 12, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church: Atlantic Beach, 1050 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233, followed by a celebration of life at 11:00 AM.