Gerald G Underwood

Jerry was born on June 15th, 1932 in Willow, Oklahoma, the only child of Clarence and Robbye Underwood. Survivors are his son, Glenn Underwood of Plant City, Florida; and his daughters, Susan Schaffler of Wheaton, Illinois; Lori Fraas of Oviedo, Florida; and five grandchildren.

Jerry grew up in the farm land of Oklahoma and graduated from the University of Houston. It was in Houston where he met and wed his beloved wife, Merle. Jerry and Merle began a life together that spanned fifty-eight years before Merle’s passing in 2011. Jerry was a wonderful provider for his family with a very successful executive sales career at Campbell’s Soup, Lawry’s Foods and finally as a principle with Dobson-Hicks, a food brokerage firm. Throughout his career, Jerry traveled to all fifty states and internationally often accompanied by his wife. Jerry and Merle along with their children resided in Texas and California before settling in Tampa, Florida in 1977. Jerry retired in 1984 and moved to Plant City in 1992 with Merle where he enjoyed investing, playing golf and frequent visits from his children and grandchildren. Jerry was a loving husband, devoted father, and a respected grandfather who will be lovingly remembered as a kind, generous, and thoughtful man who did all he could for his family.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, January 3, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. at Wells Memorial Chapel in Plant City, Florida.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Vitas Hospice or the charity of your choice.