I was reminded by a Facebook post from Jerry’s wife Betty Jo that it was the eleventh anniversary of his passing. I met Jerry in October 1978 when my foreman Jim brought him to Thalman Hall to introduce him to me as a new employee. Jerry was the Business Agent for Local #316 Service Employees Union. I joined the Union and found a new friend.

Jerry helped so many people it is impossible to count them all. We had good jobs that most of us developed into our careers at Southern Illinois University and we had Jerry to thank for that. 

Jerry was a friend to a little guy like me. He was my friend when I had none at SIUC. In the last chapter of my career, he was a confidant and key advisor. 

Jerry’s advice was actively sought by University Chancellors and Presidents. Jerry had your back…he had my back…

Jerry was wise. He could positively correct his friends and they left with their dignity intact. We will not see his kind again…he was one in a million…