Emmett Jerome “Jerry” Jacques passed away at age 79 in Orlando, Florida on September 27, 2018. He was born on June 15, 1939, in Mooresville, North Carolina to the late Emmett Homer and Dorcas Jacques.
Jerry is survived by his wife Fay, daughter Debbie Rhea (Wes), son Greg and mother Dorcas as well as his brothers Tom (Colleen) and Stan. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends.
Having grown up listening to his favorite radio show The Lone Ranger, Jerry developed an appreciation for classical music that lasted throughout his life. He enjoyed reading science fiction and studying languages, being particularly fond of French, along with Spanish and German.
A World War II buff and an ardent sports fan, Jerry’s favorite sport was baseball; he played in recreational softball leagues with his co-workers. He was also an avid bowler.
After completing his undergraduate studies at Davidson University on an ROTC scholarship, Jerry fulfilled his military assignment in Panama as an officer with the 9th PSY WAR CO., 8th Special Forces Group. While in Panama he met and married his wife and started a family. After a short military career, Jerry turned to civil service with the Panama Canal.
During his tenure with the Panama Canal he earned his Master of Science in Public Administration at Florida State University, which led to a long career in civil service that ended at NASA in 1998. Jerry enjoyed FSU football and a good meal. He entertained everyone throughout his life with his endless supply of puns that left us either grimacing or laughing. His kind, genuine soul will be missed forever.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Family Funeral Care in Orlando, Florida. A memorial service has been scheduled for Saturday, October 6, 2018 at 10:30am at Family Funeral Care with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to please consider making a donation to (https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html).