John Walker Jervis ’52,

John Walker Jervis ’52, of Gulf Breeze, Fla., passed away Dec. 24, 2005, at his children’s home, surrounded by loving family. John was born March 15, 1930, in Atlanta, Ga., later moving to Gross Pointe, Mich., where he attended Gross Pointe High School. Upon graduation, he attended Davidson College in Davidson, N.C., pursuing a degree in forestry, and after two years transferred to Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, where he lettered in baseball. Following a tour of duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, John completed his degree in industrial engineering, graduating from ISU in 1957. It was there he met his future wife, best friend, and soul mate, Arlene Smith. John first worked for Conoco Pipeline, and moved his family to Gulf Breeze, Fla., in 1964 to begin his distinguished career with Chemstrand and Monsanto. John was instrumental in the formative process of the city of Gulf Breeze as we know it today. His long time participation on the city planning board and his hand in the creation and implementation of the Green Belt ordinance has helped preserve and enhance the city’s appearance since the mid-60s. John pushed for and helped create the first girl’s softball league in Gulf Breeze, serving as the original league commissioner, and coached many a boy’s little league baseball team, most notably the 1965 Kansas City Chiefs, along with good friend John Duntz. He loved the game of golf, and especially enjoyed the days spent cruising across Santa Rosa Sound on his boat with his wife, children, and grandchildren. A gentle man, first-class gentleman, and the best father anyone could ever have, John was highly respected by everyone he met, and was especially known for his wit and remarkable sense of humor. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Arlene Smith; his daughter, Susan Jervis Kennedy (Gary), 1631 Monet Dr., Gulf Breeze, FL 32563; his daughter, Julie Jervis Crowell; grandchildren, Kadee Kennedy and Cameron and John Cobb; nephew, David Jervis; and niece, Elizabeth Ward.