Gerald S. Ryder, known to many as “JR” or “Jerry”, 60, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 2, 2023 in Eustis, Florida, after a 3 year battle with cancer.
Born in Hammond, IN Jerry moved to Orlando Florida at a young age. He graduated Boone High School in 1981, and studied at Stetson University while pursuing his baseball dream. After a short term in the minor leagues with the Cincinnati Reds, Jerry returned to Orlando where he married and became the father to three amazing daughters.
Jerry is preceded in death by his father, Gerald Ryder; and his mother, Mary Patricia (Vandenbemden) Ryder. Survivors include his loving wife, Rebecca (Shiver) of Eustis, Florida; daughter, Lynzie (Ryder) Wheeler and her husband Eric of Orlando, Florida; daughter, Kellie Ryder of Orlando, Florida; daughter, Hannah Ryder of Orlando, Florida; sister, Denise (Ryder) Nodd of Leesburg, Florida; Kimberly (Ryder) Strickland of Monteverde, Florida; grandchildren, Colton Wheeler, Charlotte Wheeler, Cooper Wheeler and Crosby Wheeler of Orlando, Florida.
Jerry touched the lives of many and inspired so many more. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, determination and kindness, which his family and friends will forever cherish.
Celebration of Life to be announced.
