Jerry Allen Tackett

Jerry A. Tackett, 71, born November 26, 1954, in Fayetteville, NC, a devoted follower of Christ and avid fisherman, passed away on May 3, 2026, in Tampa, FL, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and a love for all God’s creation. Jerry was happiest when on the water, seeing fishing as his way to connect with the Lord and to share that joy with others.

In addition to his passion for fishing with lifelong best friend AJ at his side, he enjoyed camping excursions with family and friends, hunting trips with his brother, gardening, and raising butterflies with his wife. He cherished spending time with his daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughters. Simple pleasures that made him smile, like bike rides and boat rides with Polly, just to hear her laugh, knowing the joy it brought her. He looked forward to football season, especially college football; he was a die-hard Florida Gators fan. He was also a master of the grill with mouthwatering pulled pork, his specialty. His love for woodworking spanned decades, with many beautiful pieces he created for all to enjoy.

He spent the better part of his career as a Branch Manager for Werts Welding and Tank Service in Tampa, FL, serving with integrity and kindness.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 39 years, Lucy Byrge, daughters, Danise Peele (Dwight), Polly Ledford, granddaughters, Oakleigh and Brantley Peele, sister, Barbara Haynes (Tom), brother, Keven Tackett (Sherrie), and a host of family and friends who will miss his stories of “the one that got away”.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Charles and Doris Tackett, and his precious grandson, Kember Peele.

May Jerry be remembered for his unwavering faith in the Lord and his deep love and commitment to his family and friends.

John 3:16 (NLT) - For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.

A Celebration of Jerry’s Life will be held on May 23, 2026, at Blount & Curry Life Event Center, 605 S. MacDill Avenue, Tampa, FL 33609. There will be a visitation at 10:00 a.m. with a service to follow at 11:00 a.m., with food and fellowship thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you please consider a donation in Jerry’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.