Jerry Abb DeLoney DVM

Celebrating the life of Jerry Abb DeLoney, DVM (11/2/1940 to 10/28/2024):
In Jerry's own words: "If you are reading this, know that death is just an event here on earth, and I am now living my eternity in the presence of my Lord and Savior."
"In His hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind" Job 12:7-10.
Jerry didn't want tears or sorrows. The Lord blessed him with more happy times than sad; more wellness than sufferings; a wonderful family; and a life full of friends, experiences, good food and a bit of good bourbon. Jerry never met a stranger. He said he could not have asked for a better life and if you were a part of it, he owed you thanks for making it a good one.
Jerry was born on Nov. 2, 1940, in Enterprise, Ala., to Durb and Sarah (Clouse) DeLoney. He grew up in Ozark, Ala., living a good life enjoying hunting squirrel, 'coon and quail with his twin brother and father.
He graduated from Carroll High School and went on to graduate Auburn University School of Veterinary Medicine, Class of 1968. Following vet school he worked three years at a veterinary practice in Miami and eventually settled in Tallahassee, Fla., in the early 1970s founding Northwood Animal Hospital and the first Pets Emergency service in the area. He had a strong work ethic from growing up bagging groceries and serving meals at his dad's grocery and diner. He worked hard, and he played hard.
He had a true passion for providing care to his patients and their human families. His clients loved him, and the feeling was mutual. He gave 32+ years of service in Tallahassee between Northwood Animal Hospital and Seminole Animal Clinic. Jerry devoted his life to animal care. Some of his most treasured memories were those he shared with his clients and their pets. One of Jerry's other passions was Florida State Football. His PETS ambulance, complete with the opposing team's mascots perched on top, will long be remembered around town as will his witty "words of wisdom" displayed on his Monroe Street kiosk before every game. He was also involved in the conception of the FSU mascot, Renegade, donating the first Appaloosa to the FSU athletic program in 1978 and that tradition continues today.
After retiring, Jerry and his wife, Catherine, moved back to Alabama with their horses, eventually returning to Tallahassee enjoying their free time while he continued to provide relief veterinary services in Alabama and Florida.
Jerry enjoyed the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He loved being on the water or in the woods hunting, or horseback on a remote trail, or sitting by a campfire with friends.
He wasn't perfect. He lived large. Good or bad he treasured every moment of his life. He could be strong willed and stubborn, but he also had a generous heart and a great sense of humor.
Jerry had a lifelong faith in God and loved being a member of the Waukeenah Methodist Church family, fully embracing his salvation and living for the Lord in every aspect of his life.
Jerry loved his canine companions Ry and ET, who never left his side, providing comfort and comic relief during his illness.
He is survived by his loving wife, Catherine. Together they shared 25 wonderful years. He is also survived by two children from his first marriage (a son, Winston, and a daughter, Kimberly); three beautiful granddaughters and several great grandchildren; a twin brother, Jack (with whom he shared a special relationship); and two sisters, Gayle and Becky.
At Jerry's request, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the animal charity of your choice or the Waukeenah Methodist Church Missions Program for local needs and disaster relief.
A celebration of life will be held at Waukeenah Methodist Church, 81 Methodist Church Rd., Monticello, Fla, on Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 11 a.m. (EST).