Jerry Campbell

Gerald “Jerry” Earl Campbell, a beloved father, Tata, friend, respected civil engineer, and avid golfer, passed away after a brief illness at the age of 92 in San Diego, California. Many knew Jerry as a friend and family member, kind and generous with his time and his heart. He was known for his intelligence, modesty, and unwavering optimism, qualities that made him a cherished friend and mentor to many. Born and raised in San Diego, Jerry graduated from San Diego High School and San Diego State University after serving as a cryptologist in the Army. His career as a civil engineer took him briefly to Ventura and Las Vegas, but the San Diego area was always his true home.

To his four children, Jerry was a man who stepped up from day one and always did his best to help raise a family that they are proud to be a part of. Jerry started his fatherhood journey by immediately adopting Karen, the daughter of his first wife, then gave her three siblings to grow up with. When they divorced, Jerry moved with the kids to Lemon Grove, insisting they stay together so they could grow up as a family. He took on this challenge at a time when it was largely unheard of for a father to get custody.

It was in Lemon Grove that Jerry met the love of his life, Gloria, his daughter Karen’s 6th grade school teacher. They met at a parent-teacher conference, and next thing you know, he was chaperoning a class trip to the opera—a clear sign of love at first sight for anyone who knew Jerry.

After living in Rancho Bernardo for 48 years, Jerry spent his last five years at The Glen at Scripps Ranch in San Diego. He loved The Glen, and he truly blossomed there. He spent his days walking, playing marbles and jokers and pinochle, reading, meeting new friends, and enjoying morning coffee with his buddies. It seemed that everyone at The Glen knew Jerry. His friends often said, “We love Jerry,” “Jerry was delightful,” and “Jerry is our favorite.” Always with a huge smile and an interesting story, Jerry was a joy to be around, a loyal friend, and a source of great advice. Despite his considerable accomplishments, he remained modest and always ready to lend a hand.

Jerry's enduring love for golf was demonstrated through nearly 50 years of membership at the Country Club of Rancho Bernardo (CCRB), where he also served as president and various other leadership roles. Despite the challenges of aging, Jerry's exceptional short game and putting skills remained the envy of all, even in his later years. Achieving his goal of golfing into his 90s before finally hanging up his clubs was a source of great pride for him.

Jerry was well-loved and was a devoted and proud father and Tata to his six grandchildren. He is survived by his daughters Karen (Mike), Kelly (Travis), and Kristi (Adolph), his son Greg (Carol), his grandsons Ian, Kieran, and Keith, and granddaughters Angela, Ashtin, and Carli. Jerry is predeceased by his parents, Earl and Virginia (Minasian) Campbell and the love of his life, Gloria (Castellanos) Campbell. Jerry was one in a million. He leaves behind countless friends and extended family who will miss him dearly. We can all agree that he lived a good life, and he lived it to the end.

Family and friends are invited to gather at Erickson-Anderson Mortuary, 8390 Allison Avenue, La Mesa, CA on Friday, January 17th at 10:00 for Family Hour, followed by services at the mortuary chapel at 11:00. Erickson-Anderson has very limited on-site parking. There is some un-metered neighborhood parking and a small lot not far at the end of Cypress St. Otherwise, there is metered parking on surrounding streets. Please leave time to find a parking spot and walk to the venue. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.