Jerry Alden Floyd

1951 - 2014

Jerry Alden Floyd, 63 of Anchorage made his last broadcast deadline when he passed away September 3, 2014. Jerry was born February 16, 1951 in Toppenish, Washington, the first child of Clair and Bemma Lue Curfman Floyd. He spent his childhood in Washington moving with his family as his father's work required. His most favorite memories of his childhood were of time spent with his grandparents on their farms during summer months off from school. Jerry graduated from Kent Meridian High School in Kent, Washington in 1969. The following year he attended Grace Christian College in Winona Lakes, Indiana, soon realizing college was not the life direction he would choose. Jerry found his lifetime career when he attended the Ron Bailey School of Broadcasting, receiving his certification in the early 1970's. In 1974, Jerry married Hazlyn Sasser. They became parents to daughter Jaqualyn Ann in May, 1975. They divorced in 1980. After moving to Anchorage, Alaska, in the early 1980's, Jerry remained on his own for a number of years. In 1991, he met his future wife, Twila Ellsworth, while on a winter Singles Retreat with Faith Baptist Church. Jerry and Twila married April 23, 1992, his parents'46th wedding anniversary, and were together until his passing. Jerry is survived by his wife Twila; great-nephews Malaijah and Kaedyn Jennings who were living with Jerry and Twila at the time of his death; daughter Jaqualyn Ann Bettineski and her husband Jason of Portland, Oregon, their children Noah, Gracie, and Logan; parents Clair and Bemma Lue Floyd; brothers Darrell (Debbie), Craig (Susan), Bryan (Rebecca); sister-in-law Marla (Jerold) Tombleson and numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews and great-nieces from both Jerry and Twila's families. After working as a DJ in the Northwest for over 10 years, Jerry moved to Anchorage and became involved in local news broadcasting. One of his first assignments was with KIMO Channel 13, directing their broadcast from the Olympics in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Jerry later became Director of Newscasts for KTUU channel 2 where he was awarded numerous times for his achievements including multiple Emmys. He also directed Iditarod coverage with KTUU and was highly commended by his peers. He enjoyed camping, traveling in his motor-home, and working with computers and electronics. Jerry was always quick with a joke, very inquisitive to learn how things worked, and loved playing amateur tour guide for friends and family. A memorial service was held Monday, September 8, 2014, 6 p.m., at Anchorage Grace Church and fellowship followed. His ashes will be buried in Outlook, Washington, where he spent part of his childhood. In lieu for flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.