Gerald Thomas '' Jerry'' Dryer Sr.

Gerald Thomas ''Jerry'' Dryer Sr. passed away suddenly on September 16, 2025, at the age of 76. He was born on May 20, 1949, to Eugene Alvin Dryer and Catherine Jean (Thomas) Dryer.

Jerry graduated from Sylvania High School, Class of 1967. Upon graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served from November 1966 to October 1972, including two tours in Vietnam.

After his military service, Jerry became an over-the-road truck driver, working for Bartley’s for 10 years and later for Schneider Transport. His trucking career allowed him to visit 49 of the 50 states. He retired from trucking in 1989 due to a back injury.

From 1990 to 1998, Jerry and his mother owned and operated Dryer Country Crafts at the Gibraltar Trade Center in Taylor, Michigan, where he created custom wood projects built to last a lifetime.

In 1999, Jerry fulfilled a dream by working at Express Net Airlines, a role that eventually led him to relocate to Naples, Florida. He retired in 2006 and returned to his hometown of Sylvania, Ohio.

Jerry was a proud member of VFW Post 2898, where he served as Quartermaster from 2010 to 2016. He enjoyed bowling and golfing until an arm injury prevented him from continuing the sports he loved.

Jerry is survived by his three loving children: Tammy (Robert) Pierson, Michelle Dryer, and Gerald Thomas Dryer Jr. ("Tommy"); ten cherished grandchildren: Kristen, Kelsey, Karley (Tommy), Kasey (Chris), Isabella, Logan, Aubrianna, Laynee, Adelynn, and Lilian; and eleven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Deborah (Michael) McClure of Swanton, along with three nieces and one nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Catherine Dryer, and his brothers, William J. Dryer and Ronald Dryer.

Jerry will be remembered for his service, his craftsmanship, and his deep love for his family and country.

Visitation will be at the Reeb Funeral Home on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 4pm until 8pm, where the funeral service will be on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at 11:00am.  Interment will follow at Toledo Memorial Park.

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