Jerry Coffee 1934 -2021 Living the Code
In the early morning hours of Saturday, November 13, 2021 Captain Gerald L. "Jerry" Coffee USN (Ret.) received final PCS orders from his Almighty God-in-Chief. Surrounded by loved ones he left for Heaven with abundant hugs and kisses at his condo in Alexandria, VA where he and Susan, his partner and wife of 27 years, lived part-time. Fifty years after the severe concussion from his shoot down and highspeed ejection over North Vietnam in 1966, he was diagnosed with a rare neuro condition requiring him to travel between his beloved Hawaii - home for 45 years - and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Jerry Coffee believed in the invincibility of the human spirit. He battled dozens of serious medical challenges and always miraculously bounced back. He lived a long and amazing life of inspiration, incredible adventure, and family love. In the end his heart muscle wore out, not his heart. His heart lives on through his loving family and friends, those who served with him, heard him speak or read his book, Beyond Survival. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, reconnaissance pilot, 7-year Vietnam War POW, dear friend, renowned inspirational speaker, author, and true American hero. He was 87.
Born on June 2, 1934, in Modesto, California, to Georgette Wells and Leonard Coffee, Jerry had one younger sister, Cheryl Coffee Gonzales, who died in 2020. Even as a young boy, he was one of a kind – favoring both the outdoor life of sports enabled by his surroundings as well as artistic endeavors such as drawing, painting, dancing and singing (he had a mean ear for harmony). Jerry was the quarterback of the Modesto High School football team his senior year, and was a competitive swimmer, diver, and volleyball player, although he would later note that the football team didn't have its best year under his watch. As a senior, he was Student Body President. He attained the rank of "Star" Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and always considered not becoming an Eagle Scout one of his few regrets in life.
After High School, Jerry attended Modesto Junior College, where he joined the trampolining team, and then UCLA, achieving a degree in Advertising Art. While at UCLA Jerry was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity and the varsity the ski team with ski-jumping as his specialty.
After graduating from UCLA in 1957, Jerry got his draft notice just days after his diploma. He often explained that "naval aviation looked exciting, and having been a beach volleyball player in California, the white sand beaches of Pensacola (home of Navy flight school) looked good. I had no idea I was making a commitment that would last for the next 28 years. But when I got to Pensacola, I loved everything about it and graduated as one of the top two students in my class. Not bad for an art major."
While at Modesto High School, Jerry met his first wife, Bea, and they later married just before heading to Pensacola. As his Navy life began, Jerry's family quickly expanded with the birth of his daughter, Kim, in 1958, his son Steve in 1960 and his son David in 1962. The year David was born and after returning from flying reconnaissance missions in the Middle East, Jerry was tapped to be one of 12 Navy photo reconnaissance pilots, assigned to fly out of Key West in October of 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis to covertly record suspected Soviet missile sites in Cuba. During the missions his supersonic RF-8 flew literally "under the radar" of the Cubans and Soviets. The many years he spent discerning light and shadow as an artist combined with a talent for making split second decisions as an athlete equipped him perfectly for the mission.
Those qualities arguably saved the world from nuclear destruction. At the end of one of those missions, Jerry was supposed to turn back to Key West but instead banked suddenly and detoured from his flight path. "Something just caught my eye off to one side. It looked like a big parking lot or motor pool, full of equipment and I thought I'd better check it out. I had no idea what it meant, but I flew over it with all cameras running." The pictures he took proved to be of short-range Soviet nuclear-tipped missiles known as FROGS, soon to take aim at the U.S. Naval Fleet. On November 10, Marine Corps Commandant David M. Shoupe wrote Lieutenant Gerald L. Coffee in a letter, "Your reconnaissance flight over Cuba provided the most important and most timely information for the Amphibious Forces which has ever been acquired during the history of this famous Navy-Marine fighting team." Jerry's other flights discovered more evidence of Soviet nuclear capabilities on Cuba that helped President John F. Kennedy and his military leaders during the negotiations with the Soviets.
Some of us may have "dropped the mic" at that point, but not Jerry. He loved serving his country and loved flying. He also dearly loved his burgeoning family. With one more on the way in 1966, Jerry was given orders to head East, to Vietnam. On February 3, 1966, flying reconnaissance missions off the aircraft carrier Kittyhawk, his RA5-C Vigilante was shot by anti-aircraft fire causing him to have to eject. Severely injured floating in the Tonkin Gulf, he was almost immediately captured. Despite his injuries sustained during that highspeed ejection, his captors put him before a firing squad, tortured him, and dragged him through hamlets and villages on his way to Hanoi and Hoa Lo prison beginning what was to be seven years and nine days as a prisoner of war.
During those years of brutality and torture when the communist Northern Vietnamese jailers continually defied the Geneva Conventions, tried to kill Jerry's spirit, he resisted. Now a Navy Commander, he worked within the prisoners' chain of command to learn the tap code used to communicate between cell blocks. He risked torture encouraging fellow prisoners through tapping on the walls and showed incredible fortitude and leadership, as evidenced by the commendations and fitness reports from senior officer Admiral James Stockdale and other senior leaders. As Jerry would eventually delineate in the book he wrote about his POW experience, Beyond Survival, the perseverance and even growth he experienced in those unspeakable circumstances were attributable to faith in God, faith in his country, faith in his fellow prisoners, and faith in himself.
While Jerry was in prison, his youngest son, Jerry Jr., was born.
After returning from Vietnam in 1973, he spent two years at UC Berkeley earning a Masters Degree in political science. Then back to operational duties with orders to be assigned to VC-1, an A-4 Skyhawk squadron at NAS Barber's Point in Hawaii later becoming the squadron commander.
In 1977 Jerry was selected to attend the top level school, the National War Colleges at Ft. McNair in Washington, DC.
An Aside: Here he met Susan Ditto, married to fellow classmate, study partner, and good friend, Marine Col. John Ditto. Three years after War College, in 1981, John died in a Harrier jet crash at MCAS Cherry Pt., NC. Fourteen years later, in 1994, both living in Hawaii, Jerry and Susan found themselves single and rekindled their friendship, that turned into a 27-year partnership and marriage. They adored each other and were rarely apart. They had both found soul mates, enjoying everything about each other: faith, humor, sports, travel, friends, movies, dancing, fun, writing, politics, patriotism and simply snuggling and kissing. Even and especially each other's kids. His four and her two. She was devoted to him and he to her. "I loved everything about him. I fell in love with him when I saw him ballet dance to The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy with his 4-year-old granddaughter, Amy. We never quarreled because he was quick to apologize even if he had done nothing wrong. And his hearty laugh could disarm any grievance I ever had, though I can't really remember any. I loved him because he was a really confident tough man who could both be silly and serious." Even to the very end, he would gaze at Susan and say, "I love you soooo much."
He loved Frank Sinatra's songs; Strangers in the Night and Fly Me to the Moon for starters.
After War College, he took over as the Air Operations Officer at Cincpac Fleet Headquarters in 1978. It was obvious that Jerry was eager and willing to speak about his experiences in Vietnam, so the Navy gave him a role as a public relations officer, during which he gave hundreds of speeches a year to military units and civilian groups alike on behalf of the Navy until his retirement in 1985.
His military decorations include the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 13 stars.
Upon retirement, Jerry continued to speak about his experiences primarily for corporate and association conferences and military events. But he was always available for churches, schools, and Boy Scout troops, too. His message focused on the "invincibility of the human spirit" and the importance of faith when faced with adversity. Jerry has given his keynote address at conferences for an entire cross section of business, professional, educational, faith, and military organizations throughout America and in nine foreign countries. Over the years, he has inspired 20 consecutive Plebe Classes at the United States Naval Academy, speaking on Honor. After 35 years of speaking, (and 3-million-mile flyer status from both American and United Airlines!) he finally retired at age 82.
The prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable selected him as one of its top twelve most popular, highest-rated main platform speakers for the past 20 years. He also holds the National Speaker's Association's CSP, CPAE (peer recognition)and induction into the Speaker's Hall of Fame.
His numerous civilian awards include the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge and the Honolulu Chapter of the Navy League American Patriot Award.
All through his 70s Jerry served on mission trips to Africa to help the most vulnerable with Heart for Africa. Two of his four heart attacks were away from home, one in the DFW airport, one after returning from Malawi, then eulogizing my mother at her funeral. He'd just keep going like it never happened. He would laughingly say he had used up more than his 9 lives. He loved the Salvation Army, and Wounded Warriors, any organization that would help our military men and women. He loved his church and donated a condo in Hawaii to it. He would help anyone, but deeply believed we, as humans, must be responsible and accountable, like he and his fellow POWs were in Hanoi.
Jerry's humility was his best attribute. In spite of all his achievements, awards, and accolades, he never wanted to talk about himself personally. More often than not he said We not I. His mission was never to aggrandize himself, but to impart to every audience member that they were tougher and stronger than they believed. "Have faith, be tough, hang in there and you will emerge tougher and stronger that you would've otherwise been without the adversity." He had learned so many lessons in Hanoi, he deemed it his sacred mission to spread those lessons to encourage people to embrace their circumstances with belief in themselves. A simple message of hope given by someone who had the credibility to give it. And his message resonated. The hundreds of letters and emails he received over the years proved that he was making a difference in lives. "Beyond Survival (book) not only changed my life but saved my life." - a testimonial repeated often in the letters and emails he has received.
Jerry climbed Mt. Fuji – over 12,000 ft - when he was 74. And drove a 4-wheeler up a dugout, rugged mountain in Eswatini, Africa to 2000 ft. when he was 80 and helped right the vehicle of his 30-years younger friend who had turned his 4-wheeler over.
Gerald "Jerry" Leonard Coffee is survived by his wife, Susan Page Coffee; his children Kimberley Coffee-Isaak of Honolulu, Hawaii, Stephen Coffee of Waimea, Hawaii; David Coffee and wife Sabine Coffee of Chico, California; Jerry Coffee, Jr. and wife Dr. Allana Coffee of Honolulu, Hawaii; step-children Joy Ditto Hill and husband Alan Hill of Arlington, VA; Kyle Ditto and wife Marcie Finney Ditto of Ft. Worth, Texas, Sister-in-law Sara Henderson of Boulder, Colorado; Grandchildren Amy Isaak and her daughter, Keao'olu; Frank Coffee, and Jules Coffee, Honolulu, Hawaii; Lyle and Antonio Coffee, Waimea, Hawaii; Ellie and Tessa Coffee, Chico, California; Emma and Charlotte Hill, Arlington, Virginia; Kinsie Ditto, Ft. Worth, Texas. Six nieces and nephews.
He was known as "Bapa" to his 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. It was his favorite title.
He will be deeply missed by many, but his family and closest friends will feel it the most.
He always signed off his tapping on the walls in prison to his fellow POWs, GB God Bless, and GBA God Bless America. That says everything about who he was.
On Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 10:30 AM, the heroic and loving life of Jerry Coffee will be celebrated in the United States Naval Academy Chapel. This magnificent and storied chapel will be decorated for Christmas. What an added blessing!
Every year for almost 20 years Jerry spoke to the Plebe class on the subject of Honor, so this is a fitting venue for his service. He also had strong ties to Pearl Harbor Day. Our Aiea Heights home of 30 years looks directly down on the Arizona Memorial and is a daily reminder that freedom does not exist without sacrifice and that vigilance and strength must forever be our nation's constant priority.
We, Jerry's family, are grateful to the Naval Academy for finding time for this Memorial service to take place on short notice during a busy Christmas season. We hope you whose lives have been touched by Jerry can also find the time to join us to honor his life well lived.
There will be a reception following the service (More details to come).
Note. if you are unable to attend this service, there will be a Memorial service honoring Jerry in Hawaii at our home church, First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu, www.fpchawaii.org on Sunday, December 12, at 2 PM at Ko'olau Ballroom. This service will also be live-streamed.
In a few months Jerry will be buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
God bless you. GBU. God bless America. GBA.
Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or your favorite charity that supports our men and women of the military.
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said "Here am I send me!" Isaiah 6:8 NIV
Published by Fairfax Memorial Park.
In the early morning hours of Saturday, November 13, 2021 Captain Gerald L. "Jerry" Coffee USN (Ret.) received final PCS orders from his Almighty God-in-Chief. Surrounded by loved ones he left for Heaven with abundant hugs and kisses at his condo in Alexandria, VA where he and Susan, his partner and wife of 27 years, lived part-time. Fifty years after the severe concussion from his shoot down and highspeed ejection over North Vietnam in 1966, he was diagnosed with a rare neuro condition requiring him to travel between his beloved Hawaii - home for 45 years - and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Jerry Coffee believed in the invincibility of the human spirit. He battled dozens of serious medical challenges and always miraculously bounced back. He lived a long and amazing life of inspiration, incredible adventure, and family love. In the end his heart muscle wore out, not his heart. His heart lives on through his loving family and friends, those who served with him, heard him speak or read his book, Beyond Survival. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, reconnaissance pilot, 7-year Vietnam War POW, dear friend, renowned inspirational speaker, author, and true American hero. He was 87.
Born on June 2, 1934, in Modesto, California, to Georgette Wells and Leonard Coffee, Jerry had one younger sister, Cheryl Coffee Gonzales, who died in 2020. Even as a young boy, he was one of a kind – favoring both the outdoor life of sports enabled by his surroundings as well as artistic endeavors such as drawing, painting, dancing and singing (he had a mean ear for harmony). Jerry was the quarterback of the Modesto High School football team his senior year, and was a competitive swimmer, diver, and volleyball player, although he would later note that the football team didn't have its best year under his watch. As a senior, he was Student Body President. He attained the rank of "Star" Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and always considered not becoming an Eagle Scout one of his few regrets in life.
After High School, Jerry attended Modesto Junior College, where he joined the trampolining team, and then UCLA, achieving a degree in Advertising Art. While at UCLA Jerry was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity and the varsity the ski team with ski-jumping as his specialty.
After graduating from UCLA in 1957, Jerry got his draft notice just days after his diploma. He often explained that "naval aviation looked exciting, and having been a beach volleyball player in California, the white sand beaches of Pensacola (home of Navy flight school) looked good. I had no idea I was making a commitment that would last for the next 28 years. But when I got to Pensacola, I loved everything about it and graduated as one of the top two students in my class. Not bad for an art major."
While at Modesto High School, Jerry met his first wife, Bea, and they later married just before heading to Pensacola. As his Navy life began, Jerry's family quickly expanded with the birth of his daughter, Kim, in 1958, his son Steve in 1960 and his son David in 1962. The year David was born and after returning from flying reconnaissance missions in the Middle East, Jerry was tapped to be one of 12 Navy photo reconnaissance pilots, assigned to fly out of Key West in October of 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis to covertly record suspected Soviet missile sites in Cuba. During the missions his supersonic RF-8 flew literally "under the radar" of the Cubans and Soviets. The many years he spent discerning light and shadow as an artist combined with a talent for making split second decisions as an athlete equipped him perfectly for the mission.
Those qualities arguably saved the world from nuclear destruction. At the end of one of those missions, Jerry was supposed to turn back to Key West but instead banked suddenly and detoured from his flight path. "Something just caught my eye off to one side. It looked like a big parking lot or motor pool, full of equipment and I thought I'd better check it out. I had no idea what it meant, but I flew over it with all cameras running." The pictures he took proved to be of short-range Soviet nuclear-tipped missiles known as FROGS, soon to take aim at the U.S. Naval Fleet. On November 10, Marine Corps Commandant David M. Shoupe wrote Lieutenant Gerald L. Coffee in a letter, "Your reconnaissance flight over Cuba provided the most important and most timely information for the Amphibious Forces which has ever been acquired during the history of this famous Navy-Marine fighting team." Jerry's other flights discovered more evidence of Soviet nuclear capabilities on Cuba that helped President John F. Kennedy and his military leaders during the negotiations with the Soviets.
Some of us may have "dropped the mic" at that point, but not Jerry. He loved serving his country and loved flying. He also dearly loved his burgeoning family. With one more on the way in 1966, Jerry was given orders to head East, to Vietnam. On February 3, 1966, flying reconnaissance missions off the aircraft carrier Kittyhawk, his RA5-C Vigilante was shot by anti-aircraft fire causing him to have to eject. Severely injured floating in the Tonkin Gulf, he was almost immediately captured. Despite his injuries sustained during that highspeed ejection, his captors put him before a firing squad, tortured him, and dragged him through hamlets and villages on his way to Hanoi and Hoa Lo prison beginning what was to be seven years and nine days as a prisoner of war.
During those years of brutality and torture when the communist Northern Vietnamese jailers continually defied the Geneva Conventions, tried to kill Jerry's spirit, he resisted. Now a Navy Commander, he worked within the prisoners' chain of command to learn the tap code used to communicate between cell blocks. He risked torture encouraging fellow prisoners through tapping on the walls and showed incredible fortitude and leadership, as evidenced by the commendations and fitness reports from senior officer Admiral James Stockdale and other senior leaders. As Jerry would eventually delineate in the book he wrote about his POW experience, Beyond Survival, the perseverance and even growth he experienced in those unspeakable circumstances were attributable to faith in God, faith in his country, faith in his fellow prisoners, and faith in himself.
While Jerry was in prison, his youngest son, Jerry Jr., was born.
After returning from Vietnam in 1973, he spent two years at UC Berkeley earning a Masters Degree in political science. Then back to operational duties with orders to be assigned to VC-1, an A-4 Skyhawk squadron at NAS Barber's Point in Hawaii later becoming the squadron commander.
In 1977 Jerry was selected to attend the top level school, the National War Colleges at Ft. McNair in Washington, DC.
An Aside: Here he met Susan Ditto, married to fellow classmate, study partner, and good friend, Marine Col. John Ditto. Three years after War College, in 1981, John died in a Harrier jet crash at MCAS Cherry Pt., NC. Fourteen years later, in 1994, both living in Hawaii, Jerry and Susan found themselves single and rekindled their friendship, that turned into a 27-year partnership and marriage. They adored each other and were rarely apart. They had both found soul mates, enjoying everything about each other: faith, humor, sports, travel, friends, movies, dancing, fun, writing, politics, patriotism and simply snuggling and kissing. Even and especially each other's kids. His four and her two. She was devoted to him and he to her. "I loved everything about him. I fell in love with him when I saw him ballet dance to The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy with his 4-year-old granddaughter, Amy. We never quarreled because he was quick to apologize even if he had done nothing wrong. And his hearty laugh could disarm any grievance I ever had, though I can't really remember any. I loved him because he was a really confident tough man who could both be silly and serious." Even to the very end, he would gaze at Susan and say, "I love you soooo much."
He loved Frank Sinatra's songs; Strangers in the Night and Fly Me to the Moon for starters.
After War College, he took over as the Air Operations Officer at Cincpac Fleet Headquarters in 1978. It was obvious that Jerry was eager and willing to speak about his experiences in Vietnam, so the Navy gave him a role as a public relations officer, during which he gave hundreds of speeches a year to military units and civilian groups alike on behalf of the Navy until his retirement in 1985.
His military decorations include the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 13 stars.
Upon retirement, Jerry continued to speak about his experiences primarily for corporate and association conferences and military events. But he was always available for churches, schools, and Boy Scout troops, too. His message focused on the "invincibility of the human spirit" and the importance of faith when faced with adversity. Jerry has given his keynote address at conferences for an entire cross section of business, professional, educational, faith, and military organizations throughout America and in nine foreign countries. Over the years, he has inspired 20 consecutive Plebe Classes at the United States Naval Academy, speaking on Honor. After 35 years of speaking, (and 3-million-mile flyer status from both American and United Airlines!) he finally retired at age 82.
The prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable selected him as one of its top twelve most popular, highest-rated main platform speakers for the past 20 years. He also holds the National Speaker's Association's CSP, CPAE (peer recognition)and induction into the Speaker's Hall of Fame.
His numerous civilian awards include the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge and the Honolulu Chapter of the Navy League American Patriot Award.
All through his 70s Jerry served on mission trips to Africa to help the most vulnerable with Heart for Africa. Two of his four heart attacks were away from home, one in the DFW airport, one after returning from Malawi, then eulogizing my mother at her funeral. He'd just keep going like it never happened. He would laughingly say he had used up more than his 9 lives. He loved the Salvation Army, and Wounded Warriors, any organization that would help our military men and women. He loved his church and donated a condo in Hawaii to it. He would help anyone, but deeply believed we, as humans, must be responsible and accountable, like he and his fellow POWs were in Hanoi.
Jerry's humility was his best attribute. In spite of all his achievements, awards, and accolades, he never wanted to talk about himself personally. More often than not he said We not I. His mission was never to aggrandize himself, but to impart to every audience member that they were tougher and stronger than they believed. "Have faith, be tough, hang in there and you will emerge tougher and stronger that you would've otherwise been without the adversity." He had learned so many lessons in Hanoi, he deemed it his sacred mission to spread those lessons to encourage people to embrace their circumstances with belief in themselves. A simple message of hope given by someone who had the credibility to give it. And his message resonated. The hundreds of letters and emails he received over the years proved that he was making a difference in lives. "Beyond Survival (book) not only changed my life but saved my life." - a testimonial repeated often in the letters and emails he has received.
Jerry climbed Mt. Fuji – over 12,000 ft - when he was 74. And drove a 4-wheeler up a dugout, rugged mountain in Eswatini, Africa to 2000 ft. when he was 80 and helped right the vehicle of his 30-years younger friend who had turned his 4-wheeler over.
Gerald "Jerry" Leonard Coffee is survived by his wife, Susan Page Coffee; his children Kimberley Coffee-Isaak of Honolulu, Hawaii, Stephen Coffee of Waimea, Hawaii; David Coffee and wife Sabine Coffee of Chico, California; Jerry Coffee, Jr. and wife Dr. Allana Coffee of Honolulu, Hawaii; step-children Joy Ditto Hill and husband Alan Hill of Arlington, VA; Kyle Ditto and wife Marcie Finney Ditto of Ft. Worth, Texas, Sister-in-law Sara Henderson of Boulder, Colorado; Grandchildren Amy Isaak and her daughter, Keao'olu; Frank Coffee, and Jules Coffee, Honolulu, Hawaii; Lyle and Antonio Coffee, Waimea, Hawaii; Ellie and Tessa Coffee, Chico, California; Emma and Charlotte Hill, Arlington, Virginia; Kinsie Ditto, Ft. Worth, Texas. Six nieces and nephews.
He was known as "Bapa" to his 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. It was his favorite title.
He will be deeply missed by many, but his family and closest friends will feel it the most.
He always signed off his tapping on the walls in prison to his fellow POWs, GB God Bless, and GBA God Bless America. That says everything about who he was.
On Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 10:30 AM, the heroic and loving life of Jerry Coffee will be celebrated in the United States Naval Academy Chapel. This magnificent and storied chapel will be decorated for Christmas. What an added blessing!
Every year for almost 20 years Jerry spoke to the Plebe class on the subject of Honor, so this is a fitting venue for his service. He also had strong ties to Pearl Harbor Day. Our Aiea Heights home of 30 years looks directly down on the Arizona Memorial and is a daily reminder that freedom does not exist without sacrifice and that vigilance and strength must forever be our nation's constant priority.
We, Jerry's family, are grateful to the Naval Academy for finding time for this Memorial service to take place on short notice during a busy Christmas season. We hope you whose lives have been touched by Jerry can also find the time to join us to honor his life well lived.
There will be a reception following the service (More details to come).
Note. if you are unable to attend this service, there will be a Memorial service honoring Jerry in Hawaii at our home church, First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu, www.fpchawaii.org on Sunday, December 12, at 2 PM at Ko'olau Ballroom. This service will also be live-streamed.
In a few months Jerry will be buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
God bless you. GBU. God bless America. GBA.
Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or your favorite charity that supports our men and women of the military.
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said "Here am I send me!" Isaiah 6:8 NIV
Published by Fairfax Memorial Park.
Jerry Coffee 1934 -2021 Living the Code
In the early morning hours of Saturday, November 13, 2021 Captain Gerald L. "Jerry" Coffee USN (Ret.) received final PCS orders from his Almighty God-in-Chief. Surrounded by loved ones he left for Heaven with abundant hugs and kisses at his condo in Alexandria, VA where he and Susan, his partner and wife of 27 years, lived part-time. Fifty years after the severe concussion from his shoot down and highspeed ejection over North Vietnam in 1966, he was diagnosed with a rare neuro condition requiring him to travel between his beloved Hawaii - home for 45 years - and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Jerry Coffee believed in the invincibility of the human spirit. He battled dozens of serious medical challenges and always miraculously bounced back. He lived a long and amazing life of inspiration, incredible adventure, and family love. In the end his heart muscle wore out, not his heart. His heart lives on through his loving family and friends, those who served with him, heard him speak or read his book, Beyond Survival. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, reconnaissance pilot, 7-year Vietnam War POW, dear friend, renowned inspirational speaker, author, and true American hero. He was 87.
Born on June 2, 1934, in Modesto, California, to Georgette Wells and Leonard Coffee, Jerry had one younger sister, Cheryl Coffee Gonzales, who died in 2020. Even as a young boy, he was one of a kind – favoring both the outdoor life of sports enabled by his surroundings as well as artistic endeavors such as drawing, painting, dancing and singing (he had a mean ear for harmony). Jerry was the quarterback of the Modesto High School football team his senior year, and was a competitive swimmer, diver, and volleyball player, although he would later note that the football team didn't have its best year under his watch. As a senior, he was Student Body President. He attained the rank of "Star" Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and always considered not becoming an Eagle Scout one of his few regrets in life.
After High School, Jerry attended Modesto Junior College, where he joined the trampolining team, and then UCLA, achieving a degree in Advertising Art. While at UCLA Jerry was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity and the varsity the ski team with ski-jumping as his specialty.
After graduating from UCLA in 1957, Jerry got his draft notice just days after his diploma. He often explained that "naval aviation looked exciting, and having been a beach volleyball player in California, the white sand beaches of Pensacola (home of Navy flight school) looked good. I had no idea I was making a commitment that would last for the next 28 years. But when I got to Pensacola, I loved everything about it and graduated as one of the top two students in my class. Not bad for an art major."
While at Modesto High School, Jerry met his first wife, Bea, and they later married just before heading to Pensacola. As his Navy life began, Jerry's family quickly expanded with the birth of his daughter, Kim, in 1958, his son Steve in 1960 and his son David in 1962. The year David was born and after returning from flying reconnaissance missions in the Middle East, Jerry was tapped to be one of 12 Navy photo reconnaissance pilots, assigned to fly out of Key West in October of 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis to covertly record suspected Soviet missile sites in Cuba. During the missions his supersonic RF-8 flew literally "under the radar" of the Cubans and Soviets. The many years he spent discerning light and shadow as an artist combined with a talent for making split second decisions as an athlete equipped him perfectly for the mission.
Those qualities arguably saved the world from nuclear destruction. At the end of one of those missions, Jerry was supposed to turn back to Key West but instead banked suddenly and detoured from his flight path. "Something just caught my eye off to one side. It looked like a big parking lot or motor pool, full of equipment and I thought I'd better check it out. I had no idea what it meant, but I flew over it with all cameras running." The pictures he took proved to be of short-range Soviet nuclear-tipped missiles known as FROGS, soon to take aim at the U.S. Naval Fleet. On November 10, Marine Corps Commandant David M. Shoupe wrote Lieutenant Gerald L. Coffee in a letter, "Your reconnaissance flight over Cuba provided the most important and most timely information for the Amphibious Forces which has ever been acquired during the history of this famous Navy-Marine fighting team." Jerry's other flights discovered more evidence of Soviet nuclear capabilities on Cuba that helped President John F. Kennedy and his military leaders during the negotiations with the Soviets.
Some of us may have "dropped the mic" at that point, but not Jerry. He loved serving his country and loved flying. He also dearly loved his burgeoning family. With one more on the way in 1966, Jerry was given orders to head East, to Vietnam. On February 3, 1966, flying reconnaissance missions off the aircraft carrier Kittyhawk, his RA5-C Vigilante was shot by anti-aircraft fire causing him to have to eject. Severely injured floating in the Tonkin Gulf, he was almost immediately captured. Despite his injuries sustained during that highspeed ejection, his captors put him before a firing squad, tortured him, and dragged him through hamlets and villages on his way to Hanoi and Hoa Lo prison beginning what was to be seven years and nine days as a prisoner of war.
During those years of brutality and torture when the communist Northern Vietnamese jailers continually defied the Geneva Conventions, tried to kill Jerry's spirit, he resisted. Now a Navy Commander, he worked within the prisoners' chain of command to learn the tap code used to communicate between cell blocks. He risked torture encouraging fellow prisoners through tapping on the walls and showed incredible fortitude and leadership, as evidenced by the commendations and fitness reports from senior officer Admiral James Stockdale and other senior leaders. As Jerry would eventually delineate in the book he wrote about his POW experience, Beyond Survival, the perseverance and even growth he experienced in those unspeakable circumstances were attributable to faith in God, faith in his country, faith in his fellow prisoners, and faith in himself.
While Jerry was in prison, his youngest son, Jerry Jr., was born.
After returning from Vietnam in 1973, he spent two years at UC Berkeley earning a Masters Degree in political science. Then back to operational duties with orders to be assigned to VC-1, an A-4 Skyhawk squadron at NAS Barber's Point in Hawaii later becoming the squadron commander.
In 1977 Jerry was selected to attend the top level school, the National War Colleges at Ft. McNair in Washington, DC.
An Aside: Here he met Susan Ditto, married to fellow classmate, study partner, and good friend, Marine Col. John Ditto. Three years after War College, in 1981, John died in a Harrier jet crash at MCAS Cherry Pt., NC. Fourteen years later, in 1994, both living in Hawaii, Jerry and Susan found themselves single and rekindled their friendship, that turned into a 27-year partnership and marriage. They adored each other and were rarely apart. They had both found soul mates, enjoying everything about each other: faith, humor, sports, travel, friends, movies, dancing, fun, writing, politics, patriotism and simply snuggling and kissing. Even and especially each other's kids. His four and her two. She was devoted to him and he to her. "I loved everything about him. I fell in love with him when I saw him ballet dance to The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy with his 4-year-old granddaughter, Amy. We never quarreled because he was quick to apologize even if he had done nothing wrong. And his hearty laugh could disarm any grievance I ever had, though I can't really remember any. I loved him because he was a really confident tough man who could both be silly and serious." Even to the very end, he would gaze at Susan and say, "I love you soooo much."
He loved Frank Sinatra's songs; Strangers in the Night and Fly Me to the Moon for starters.
After War College, he took over as the Air Operations Officer at Cincpac Fleet Headquarters in 1978. It was obvious that Jerry was eager and willing to speak about his experiences in Vietnam, so the Navy gave him a role as a public relations officer, during which he gave hundreds of speeches a year to military units and civilian groups alike on behalf of the Navy until his retirement in 1985.
His military decorations include the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 13 stars.
Upon retirement, Jerry continued to speak about his experiences primarily for corporate and association conferences and military events. But he was always available for churches, schools, and Boy Scout troops, too. His message focused on the "invincibility of the human spirit" and the importance of faith when faced with adversity. Jerry has given his keynote address at conferences for an entire cross section of business, professional, educational, faith, and military organizations throughout America and in nine foreign countries. Over the years, he has inspired 20 consecutive Plebe Classes at the United States Naval Academy, speaking on Honor. After 35 years of speaking, (and 3-million-mile flyer status from both American and United Airlines!) he finally retired at age 82.
The prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable selected him as one of its top twelve most popular, highest-rated main platform speakers for the past 20 years. He also holds the National Speaker's Association's CSP, CPAE (peer recognition)and induction into the Speaker's Hall of Fame.
His numerous civilian awards include the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge and the Honolulu Chapter of the Navy League American Patriot Award.
All through his 70s Jerry served on mission trips to Africa to help the most vulnerable with Heart for Africa. Two of his four heart attacks were away from home, one in the DFW airport, one after returning from Malawi, then eulogizing my mother at her funeral. He'd just keep going like it never happened. He would laughingly say he had used up more than his 9 lives. He loved the Salvation Army, and Wounded Warriors, any organization that would help our military men and women. He loved his church and donated a condo in Hawaii to it. He would help anyone, but deeply believed we, as humans, must be responsible and accountable, like he and his fellow POWs were in Hanoi.
Jerry's humility was his best attribute. In spite of all his achievements, awards, and accolades, he never wanted to talk about himself personally. More often than not he said We not I. His mission was never to aggrandize himself, but to impart to every audience member that they were tougher and stronger than they believed. "Have faith, be tough, hang in there and you will emerge tougher and stronger that you would've otherwise been without the adversity." He had learned so many lessons in Hanoi, he deemed it his sacred mission to spread those lessons to encourage people to embrace their circumstances with belief in themselves. A simple message of hope given by someone who had the credibility to give it. And his message resonated. The hundreds of letters and emails he received over the years proved that he was making a difference in lives. "Beyond Survival (book) not only changed my life but saved my life." - a testimonial repeated often in the letters and emails he has received.
Jerry climbed Mt. Fuji – over 12,000 ft - when he was 74. And drove a 4-wheeler up a dugout, rugged mountain in Eswatini, Africa to 2000 ft. when he was 80 and helped right the vehicle of his 30-years younger friend who had turned his 4-wheeler over.
Gerald "Jerry" Leonard Coffee is survived by his wife, Susan Page Coffee; his children Kimberley Coffee-Isaak of Honolulu, Hawaii, Stephen Coffee of Waimea, Hawaii; David Coffee and wife Sabine Coffee of Chico, California; Jerry Coffee, Jr. and wife Dr. Allana Coffee of Honolulu, Hawaii; step-children Joy Ditto Hill and husband Alan Hill of Arlington, VA; Kyle Ditto and wife Marcie Finney Ditto of Ft. Worth, Texas, Sister-in-law Sara Henderson of Boulder, Colorado; Grandchildren Amy Isaak and her daughter, Keao'olu; Frank Coffee, and Jules Coffee, Honolulu, Hawaii; Lyle and Antonio Coffee, Waimea, Hawaii; Ellie and Tessa Coffee, Chico, California; Emma and Charlotte Hill, Arlington, Virginia; Kinsie Ditto, Ft. Worth, Texas. Six nieces and nephews.
He was known as "Bapa" to his 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. It was his favorite title.
He will be deeply missed by many, but his family and closest friends will feel it the most.
He always signed off his tapping on the walls in prison to his fellow POWs, GB God Bless, and GBA God Bless America. That says everything about who he was.
On Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 10:30 AM, the heroic and loving life of Jerry Coffee will be celebrated in the United States Naval Academy Chapel. This magnificent and storied chapel will be decorated for Christmas. What an added blessing!
Every year for almost 20 years Jerry spoke to the Plebe class on the subject of Honor, so this is a fitting venue for his service. He also had strong ties to Pearl Harbor Day. Our Aiea Heights home of 30 years looks directly down on the Arizona Memorial and is a daily reminder that freedom does not exist without sacrifice and that vigilance and strength must forever be our nation's constant priority.
We, Jerry's family, are grateful to the Naval Academy for finding time for this Memorial service to take place on short notice during a busy Christmas season. We hope you whose lives have been touched by Jerry can also find the time to join us to honor his life well lived.
There will be a reception following the service (More details to come).
Note. if you are unable to attend this service, there will be a Memorial service honoring Jerry in Hawaii at our home church, First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu, www.fpchawaii.org on Sunday, December 12, at 2 PM at Ko'olau Ballroom. This service will also be live-streamed.
In a few months Jerry will be buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
God bless you. GBU. God bless America. GBA.
Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or your favorite charity that supports our men and women of the military.
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said "Here am I send me!" Isaiah 6:8 NIV
Published by Fairfax Memorial Park.
In the early morning hours of Saturday, November 13, 2021 Captain Gerald L. "Jerry" Coffee USN (Ret.) received final PCS orders from his Almighty God-in-Chief. Surrounded by loved ones he left for Heaven with abundant hugs and kisses at his condo in Alexandria, VA where he and Susan, his partner and wife of 27 years, lived part-time. Fifty years after the severe concussion from his shoot down and highspeed ejection over North Vietnam in 1966, he was diagnosed with a rare neuro condition requiring him to travel between his beloved Hawaii - home for 45 years - and Johns Hopkins Medical Center. Jerry Coffee believed in the invincibility of the human spirit. He battled dozens of serious medical challenges and always miraculously bounced back. He lived a long and amazing life of inspiration, incredible adventure, and family love. In the end his heart muscle wore out, not his heart. His heart lives on through his loving family and friends, those who served with him, heard him speak or read his book, Beyond Survival. He was a loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, reconnaissance pilot, 7-year Vietnam War POW, dear friend, renowned inspirational speaker, author, and true American hero. He was 87.
Born on June 2, 1934, in Modesto, California, to Georgette Wells and Leonard Coffee, Jerry had one younger sister, Cheryl Coffee Gonzales, who died in 2020. Even as a young boy, he was one of a kind – favoring both the outdoor life of sports enabled by his surroundings as well as artistic endeavors such as drawing, painting, dancing and singing (he had a mean ear for harmony). Jerry was the quarterback of the Modesto High School football team his senior year, and was a competitive swimmer, diver, and volleyball player, although he would later note that the football team didn't have its best year under his watch. As a senior, he was Student Body President. He attained the rank of "Star" Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and always considered not becoming an Eagle Scout one of his few regrets in life.
After High School, Jerry attended Modesto Junior College, where he joined the trampolining team, and then UCLA, achieving a degree in Advertising Art. While at UCLA Jerry was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity and the varsity the ski team with ski-jumping as his specialty.
After graduating from UCLA in 1957, Jerry got his draft notice just days after his diploma. He often explained that "naval aviation looked exciting, and having been a beach volleyball player in California, the white sand beaches of Pensacola (home of Navy flight school) looked good. I had no idea I was making a commitment that would last for the next 28 years. But when I got to Pensacola, I loved everything about it and graduated as one of the top two students in my class. Not bad for an art major."
While at Modesto High School, Jerry met his first wife, Bea, and they later married just before heading to Pensacola. As his Navy life began, Jerry's family quickly expanded with the birth of his daughter, Kim, in 1958, his son Steve in 1960 and his son David in 1962. The year David was born and after returning from flying reconnaissance missions in the Middle East, Jerry was tapped to be one of 12 Navy photo reconnaissance pilots, assigned to fly out of Key West in October of 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis to covertly record suspected Soviet missile sites in Cuba. During the missions his supersonic RF-8 flew literally "under the radar" of the Cubans and Soviets. The many years he spent discerning light and shadow as an artist combined with a talent for making split second decisions as an athlete equipped him perfectly for the mission.
Those qualities arguably saved the world from nuclear destruction. At the end of one of those missions, Jerry was supposed to turn back to Key West but instead banked suddenly and detoured from his flight path. "Something just caught my eye off to one side. It looked like a big parking lot or motor pool, full of equipment and I thought I'd better check it out. I had no idea what it meant, but I flew over it with all cameras running." The pictures he took proved to be of short-range Soviet nuclear-tipped missiles known as FROGS, soon to take aim at the U.S. Naval Fleet. On November 10, Marine Corps Commandant David M. Shoupe wrote Lieutenant Gerald L. Coffee in a letter, "Your reconnaissance flight over Cuba provided the most important and most timely information for the Amphibious Forces which has ever been acquired during the history of this famous Navy-Marine fighting team." Jerry's other flights discovered more evidence of Soviet nuclear capabilities on Cuba that helped President John F. Kennedy and his military leaders during the negotiations with the Soviets.
Some of us may have "dropped the mic" at that point, but not Jerry. He loved serving his country and loved flying. He also dearly loved his burgeoning family. With one more on the way in 1966, Jerry was given orders to head East, to Vietnam. On February 3, 1966, flying reconnaissance missions off the aircraft carrier Kittyhawk, his RA5-C Vigilante was shot by anti-aircraft fire causing him to have to eject. Severely injured floating in the Tonkin Gulf, he was almost immediately captured. Despite his injuries sustained during that highspeed ejection, his captors put him before a firing squad, tortured him, and dragged him through hamlets and villages on his way to Hanoi and Hoa Lo prison beginning what was to be seven years and nine days as a prisoner of war.
During those years of brutality and torture when the communist Northern Vietnamese jailers continually defied the Geneva Conventions, tried to kill Jerry's spirit, he resisted. Now a Navy Commander, he worked within the prisoners' chain of command to learn the tap code used to communicate between cell blocks. He risked torture encouraging fellow prisoners through tapping on the walls and showed incredible fortitude and leadership, as evidenced by the commendations and fitness reports from senior officer Admiral James Stockdale and other senior leaders. As Jerry would eventually delineate in the book he wrote about his POW experience, Beyond Survival, the perseverance and even growth he experienced in those unspeakable circumstances were attributable to faith in God, faith in his country, faith in his fellow prisoners, and faith in himself.
While Jerry was in prison, his youngest son, Jerry Jr., was born.
After returning from Vietnam in 1973, he spent two years at UC Berkeley earning a Masters Degree in political science. Then back to operational duties with orders to be assigned to VC-1, an A-4 Skyhawk squadron at NAS Barber's Point in Hawaii later becoming the squadron commander.
In 1977 Jerry was selected to attend the top level school, the National War Colleges at Ft. McNair in Washington, DC.
An Aside: Here he met Susan Ditto, married to fellow classmate, study partner, and good friend, Marine Col. John Ditto. Three years after War College, in 1981, John died in a Harrier jet crash at MCAS Cherry Pt., NC. Fourteen years later, in 1994, both living in Hawaii, Jerry and Susan found themselves single and rekindled their friendship, that turned into a 27-year partnership and marriage. They adored each other and were rarely apart. They had both found soul mates, enjoying everything about each other: faith, humor, sports, travel, friends, movies, dancing, fun, writing, politics, patriotism and simply snuggling and kissing. Even and especially each other's kids. His four and her two. She was devoted to him and he to her. "I loved everything about him. I fell in love with him when I saw him ballet dance to The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy with his 4-year-old granddaughter, Amy. We never quarreled because he was quick to apologize even if he had done nothing wrong. And his hearty laugh could disarm any grievance I ever had, though I can't really remember any. I loved him because he was a really confident tough man who could both be silly and serious." Even to the very end, he would gaze at Susan and say, "I love you soooo much."
He loved Frank Sinatra's songs; Strangers in the Night and Fly Me to the Moon for starters.
After War College, he took over as the Air Operations Officer at Cincpac Fleet Headquarters in 1978. It was obvious that Jerry was eager and willing to speak about his experiences in Vietnam, so the Navy gave him a role as a public relations officer, during which he gave hundreds of speeches a year to military units and civilian groups alike on behalf of the Navy until his retirement in 1985.
His military decorations include the Silver Star, two awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, two Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnam Service Medal with 13 stars.
Upon retirement, Jerry continued to speak about his experiences primarily for corporate and association conferences and military events. But he was always available for churches, schools, and Boy Scout troops, too. His message focused on the "invincibility of the human spirit" and the importance of faith when faced with adversity. Jerry has given his keynote address at conferences for an entire cross section of business, professional, educational, faith, and military organizations throughout America and in nine foreign countries. Over the years, he has inspired 20 consecutive Plebe Classes at the United States Naval Academy, speaking on Honor. After 35 years of speaking, (and 3-million-mile flyer status from both American and United Airlines!) he finally retired at age 82.
The prestigious Million Dollar Roundtable selected him as one of its top twelve most popular, highest-rated main platform speakers for the past 20 years. He also holds the National Speaker's Association's CSP, CPAE (peer recognition)and induction into the Speaker's Hall of Fame.
His numerous civilian awards include the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge and the Honolulu Chapter of the Navy League American Patriot Award.
All through his 70s Jerry served on mission trips to Africa to help the most vulnerable with Heart for Africa. Two of his four heart attacks were away from home, one in the DFW airport, one after returning from Malawi, then eulogizing my mother at her funeral. He'd just keep going like it never happened. He would laughingly say he had used up more than his 9 lives. He loved the Salvation Army, and Wounded Warriors, any organization that would help our military men and women. He loved his church and donated a condo in Hawaii to it. He would help anyone, but deeply believed we, as humans, must be responsible and accountable, like he and his fellow POWs were in Hanoi.
Jerry's humility was his best attribute. In spite of all his achievements, awards, and accolades, he never wanted to talk about himself personally. More often than not he said We not I. His mission was never to aggrandize himself, but to impart to every audience member that they were tougher and stronger than they believed. "Have faith, be tough, hang in there and you will emerge tougher and stronger that you would've otherwise been without the adversity." He had learned so many lessons in Hanoi, he deemed it his sacred mission to spread those lessons to encourage people to embrace their circumstances with belief in themselves. A simple message of hope given by someone who had the credibility to give it. And his message resonated. The hundreds of letters and emails he received over the years proved that he was making a difference in lives. "Beyond Survival (book) not only changed my life but saved my life." - a testimonial repeated often in the letters and emails he has received.
Jerry climbed Mt. Fuji – over 12,000 ft - when he was 74. And drove a 4-wheeler up a dugout, rugged mountain in Eswatini, Africa to 2000 ft. when he was 80 and helped right the vehicle of his 30-years younger friend who had turned his 4-wheeler over.
Gerald "Jerry" Leonard Coffee is survived by his wife, Susan Page Coffee; his children Kimberley Coffee-Isaak of Honolulu, Hawaii, Stephen Coffee of Waimea, Hawaii; David Coffee and wife Sabine Coffee of Chico, California; Jerry Coffee, Jr. and wife Dr. Allana Coffee of Honolulu, Hawaii; step-children Joy Ditto Hill and husband Alan Hill of Arlington, VA; Kyle Ditto and wife Marcie Finney Ditto of Ft. Worth, Texas, Sister-in-law Sara Henderson of Boulder, Colorado; Grandchildren Amy Isaak and her daughter, Keao'olu; Frank Coffee, and Jules Coffee, Honolulu, Hawaii; Lyle and Antonio Coffee, Waimea, Hawaii; Ellie and Tessa Coffee, Chico, California; Emma and Charlotte Hill, Arlington, Virginia; Kinsie Ditto, Ft. Worth, Texas. Six nieces and nephews.
He was known as "Bapa" to his 10 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. It was his favorite title.
He will be deeply missed by many, but his family and closest friends will feel it the most.
He always signed off his tapping on the walls in prison to his fellow POWs, GB God Bless, and GBA God Bless America. That says everything about who he was.
On Tuesday, December 7, 2021 at 10:30 AM, the heroic and loving life of Jerry Coffee will be celebrated in the United States Naval Academy Chapel. This magnificent and storied chapel will be decorated for Christmas. What an added blessing!
Every year for almost 20 years Jerry spoke to the Plebe class on the subject of Honor, so this is a fitting venue for his service. He also had strong ties to Pearl Harbor Day. Our Aiea Heights home of 30 years looks directly down on the Arizona Memorial and is a daily reminder that freedom does not exist without sacrifice and that vigilance and strength must forever be our nation's constant priority.
We, Jerry's family, are grateful to the Naval Academy for finding time for this Memorial service to take place on short notice during a busy Christmas season. We hope you whose lives have been touched by Jerry can also find the time to join us to honor his life well lived.
There will be a reception following the service (More details to come).
Note. if you are unable to attend this service, there will be a Memorial service honoring Jerry in Hawaii at our home church, First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu, www.fpchawaii.org on Sunday, December 12, at 2 PM at Ko'olau Ballroom. This service will also be live-streamed.
In a few months Jerry will be buried with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery.
God bless you. GBU. God bless America. GBA.
Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or your favorite charity that supports our men and women of the military.
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said "Here am I send me!" Isaiah 6:8 NIV
Published by Fairfax Memorial Park.
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