Gerald R. "Jerry" Scherer Jr.

Gerald R. "Jerry" Scherer, Jr., age 78, of Peoria, passed away at 5:19 am on Friday, September 26, 2025 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home.

He was born March 27, 1947 in Ft. Wayne, IN to Gerald R. Sr. and Marilyn Scherer. On August 15, 2009 he married Wendy S. Campbell in Peoria and they cherished their life together. Jerry worked as a numismatician studying coins and paper currency.

Surviving are his wife, Wendy of Peoria; two children: Tony Scherer and Heather Davis both of Ft. Wayne, IN; three brothers: Lawrence Scherer, Richard (Christina) Scherer and Mike Scherer; two sisters: Suzanne Scherer and Sherry Eaton; and one grandson: Robert T. Scherer.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers: Phillip Renze, Gregory Scherer and Donald Scherer.

Jerry lived his life with purpose, heart, and joy. His life was anchored in faith, family, and fellowship. He was a servant of God, drawing strength and peace from his relationship with Christ.

Sixteen years ago, Jerry met, Wendy, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventure. Their bond was one of deep friendship and unwavering support in sickness and in health.

Jerry was a proud and loving father, who enjoyed spending time with his children and cherishing his time spent with his son, watching Star Trek.

His love for music, especially jazz, ran deep. Jerry found in music a kind of peace words could never fully express. Among his many interests, coin collecting was more than a hobby-it was a daily joy. Each coin told a story, and Jerry had a gift for preserving history, both in his hands and in his heart. It kept him engaged and curious, connecting him to people, places, and the past.

Jerry's legacy lives on in the memories he made, the lives he touched, and the love he gave freely. He will be deeply missed-and fondly remembered-by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Visitation will be held at Wright & Salmon Mortuary on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 from 5:00 PM until time of prayer service at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Philomena Catholic Church on Thursday, October 2, 2025 at 10:30 am with an additional visitation one hour prior to mass. Father Daniel Dionesotes will officiate, and entombment will follow at Resurrection Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to St. Philomena Catholic School, tuition program.

Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Jerry Memorial page via social media.

Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)