Girard "Jerry" John Avery, 83, of Lakeview Terrace in Altoona, Florida, left us peacefully on April 18, 2025, but his spirit and legacy continue to ignite our hearts. Born on May 28, 1941, in Elmira, New York, he dedicated his life passionately to the arts, education, and above all, to his beloved family.

Jerry's creative soul shone brightly through his accomplishments—earning his Bachelor of Arts from Parsons College in Fairfield, Iowa, and his Master of Science in Education from SUNY Buffalo. He poured his heart into nurturing young minds for over three decades at Bodley High School in Fulton, NY, where his inspiring leadership transformed an ordinary art program into one of the finest, touching countless students' lives and sparking dreams of multi-media careers. As an artist and craftsman, his work was a testament to his relentless pursuit of beauty—an extension of his generous spirit.

In his youth, Jerry found joy in simple, heartfelt pursuits—fishing and hunting with loved ones, bonds forged in nature's embrace. As the years moved on, his passions grew to include playing horseshoes and cornhole, tending his garden, landscaping his yard, exploring new places through travel and photography, and creating treasured photo albums of his journeys—a visual legacy of his adventurous soul.

Jerry was a pillar of his community and his faith, fervently attending the First United Methodist Church in Mount Dora, FL, as well as in Elmira and Baldwinsville, NY. He was a steadfast supporter of the arts and education, but above all, he was a loving, unwavering husband, father, and grandfather—always a true gentleman whose kindness left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

He leaves behind his wife, Joan, who was his greatest supporter and confidante; his daughters, Denise (Tom) Strickland of Alexandria, VA, and Laura (Matthew) McSpedon of Ridgefield, CT; cherished grandchildren, Addison and Liam; his brother Fay (Carol) Avery of Sterling, VA; along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends whose lives he enriched with his warm heart and gentle spirit.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Fay John and Viola Girard Avery—reminding us of where his journey began.

A heartfelt celebration of his extraordinary life will be held at the First United Methodist Church of Mount Dora, FL, located at 439 East Fifth Street, Mount Dora Florida 32757, on May 17, 2025, at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Memorial Fund for the Arts of First United Methodist Church in Mount Dora , or to Vitas Healthcare Team #2510 6909 Old Hwy 441, Ste 105, Mt Dora, FL 32757 in Jerry's loving memory.

Jerry's gentle heart, boundless creativity, and unwavering love will forever live in our memories. His legacy is a testament to a life truly lived with passion, kindness, and hope.