Gerald "Jerry" Pendleton Campbell passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024, in Melbourne, Florida, at the age of 81. Jerry was a loving and supportive husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves behind a legacy of humor, wisdom, and deep devotion with his family. Jerry's memory will be cherished by his wife of 45 years, Dala, and three sons and their brides, Travis (Amanda), Samuel (Sarah) Lieutenant Colonel, and Todd (Sherry). He was also a proud grandfather to his five grandchildren, Carsyn (10), Reid (8), Stevie (5), Walker (3), and Beau (2), all of whom he adored. With a life as rich and full as Jerry's, we do not wish to mourn his passing, but celebrate the remarkable man he was.
Born on July 2, 1943, in Toledo, Ohio, Jerry was the son of Joseph P. Campbell and Helen Meisner Campbell Eyster. He attended Whitmer High School and proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1966, where he served with the Special Forces and the 82nd Airborne. His military service left a lasting impact on him, and he carried that sense of duty and patriotism with him throughout his life. After his honorable discharge, Jerry attended the University of Toledo, where he earned an associate degree in 1969. He was recognized as a distinguished student in Who's Who and a member of the Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity. In 1974, he earned his bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Houston.
Jerry's career in the oil and gas industry spanned many years, but it was in 1979 that he met Dala, the love of his life. They married and built a beautiful life together, filled with laughter, adventures, and a shared love for their family. Jerry had an unshakable passion for making people laugh, engaging in deep philosophical debates, and enjoying spirited conversations about politics. He was a true patriot, who always wanted the best for his family and his country.
Beyond his career and intellectual pursuits, Jerry was a dedicated community member and volunteer. He was a 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason for 50 years and could always be counted on to be the life of the party at Jester events. He also volunteered his time with many organizations, including the Lake Travis Education Foundation and as a Cub Scout den leader. Jerry's commitment to helping others and his involvement in his community were defining characteristics of his generous spirit. Jerry "retired" in 2012 as an Investment Banker, and quickly found himself doing what was truly a blessing and passion, working for the National Guard Youth Challenge Program.
Jerry had an endless list of hobbies that filled his life with happiness. From his passion for shooting sports and boating with his kids, to his love of reading, reviewing and writing screenplays, he was always exploring new interests. He cherished time spent with friends on the golf course, where laughter was abundant, and he could humorously acknowledge that his wife's golfing skills far outshined his golf game while still giving his expertise advice, of course.
Though he had many accomplishments, Jerry was most proud of being a family man. His devotion to his wife Dala, his sons and their wives, and his grandchildren was the cornerstone of his life. Jerry's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, unwavering loyalty, and commitment to his family.
He believed "no matter what a man's political feeling may be, no matter in what country he may live or under what faith he may offer his petitions, there is a trinity of belief to which he every hopes to cling and which he wishes to impart, a deep rooted, in the hearts of his children. God and Home and Native land-could one ask anything more than those for happiness?" (Excerpt from the book God and Home and Native Land (1912)).
Funeral Arrangements: A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at Indian River Colony Club (IRCC) Chapel on November 26th 2024 at 2pm with reception following at the At Ease Club at 3pm. The family invites friends and loved ones to join in remembering and honoring a life well-lived. An additional memorial and interment will happen in 2025 in Houston, Texas where he will rest at the Houston National Cemetery.
His family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this time. While Jerry's presence will be missed, his love for his family and his joyful spirit will remain with us always. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Lake Travis Education Foundation in Jerry's honor: https://www.lteducationfoundation.org
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many friends, family members, and caregivers who supported Jerry throughout his life and in his final days. Your kindness and compassion have meant the world to us
