Jerry Wayne Gorby

Jerry Wayne Gorby, affectionately known as “Gorbs,” passed away peacefully on May 4, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 8, 1942, in Washington, Pennsylvania, Jerry brought joy, humor, and boundless energy to all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Carolyn Gorby, his daughters Tricia Gorby and Tina Jones (Paul Jones), and his treasured grandchildren: Ciara, Sydney, and Donovan Jones, and Aysha and Kai Knoot. He was preceded in death by his parents, Florence and Harold Gorby, and his brother, Douglas Gorby.

Jerry grew up in Washington and Upper St. Clair, PA, and proudly belonged to the first graduating class of Upper St. Clair High School. A determined self-starter, he began working at age 10 as a paperboy in the hills of Pittsburgh and later became a top Cutco salesman—earning the Key to the City of Pittsburgh while still in college.

At Tarkio College in Missouri, where he was recruited to play football, Jerry met the love of his life, Carolyn. The two shared a vibrant and enduring love story that began with football games and college dances and spanned more than six decades. Together, they once won a Twist dance competition—just one of many moments that reflected their shared spirit and joy.

After earning his degree in education and working as a recruiter at Tarkio, Jerry completed a Master’s degree at Duquesne University. In 1966, he and Carolyn packed up and moved to Wisconsin, where Jerry began a long and fulfilling career at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, serving first as Residence Hall Director then Director of Housing —and finally—as Director of General Services, where he had a wide-reaching impact on campus life and operations.

Jerry’s love for sports came from his father, Harold, and he passed that same enthusiasm on to his daughters. He supported them tirelessly—installing a pull-up bar in the basement, helping prepare for gymnastics meets, and cheering them on with pride. Whether on the sidelines or behind a video camera, he celebrated every effort and achievement.

Jerry and Carolyn built their family life on Turtle Lake, where they created a haven full of laughter, adventure, and tradition. Though their home was on Turtle Lake, Jerry also served as President of the Minnieska Ski Team on a nearby lake, where his daughters performed in ski shows. He was always nearby with a camera on his shoulder, documenting each twist and turn.

Later in life, Jerry moved into what truly lit him up—sales. Before founding his own sales company supplying furniture to colleges, universities, and hospitals throughout the Midwest, Jerry served as National Sales Manager for three different furniture manufacturers, where he honed his skills, built lasting relationships, and earned deep respect in the industry.

Known for showing up with coffee, donuts, and a warm smile, Jerry built real relationships everywhere he went. Earlier in his Whitewater years, he co-owned the Red Lantern, a popular local pizza restaurant—an early expression of his lifelong love for bringing people together over food.

That love blossomed even more fully in retirement. Jerry’s passion wasn’t food itself—it was feeding people. Whether at Turtle Lake or Sanibel Island, he could often be found cooking ribs on a Sunday night, inviting anyone who could stay for dinner. He took joy in planning meals, firing up the grill, and setting the scene for connection—moments full of laughter, second helpings, and stories that grew with each retelling.

Eventually, Jerry and Carolyn retired to Sanibel Island, where they spent many joyful years walking the beach, sipping cocktails at sunset, watching dolphins leap and pelicans dive, and dancing through life just as they had when it all began. Sanibel wasn’t just a destination—it was home, peaceful and vibrant, filled with memories and laughter. They hosted Carolyn and Jerry’s family and friends from Pennsylvania, as well as friends from Wisconsin, creating a welcoming space where their place became a true vacation destination for so many. It was a place where people felt at home, whether for a weekend or a lifetime of memories.

A devoted Green Bay Packers fan–and proud shareholder– with a generous heart and a contagious laugh, Jerry lived life fully and gave deeply. He was a man of big dreams and even bigger love. Whether helping with a project—often with more enthusiasm than precision—taping something together with duct tape, drawing up ideas on a cocktail napkin, or waking up with a detailed to-do list, he was always ready to make something happen and to make people feel welcome.

Jerry was also a man of faith, which quietly guided the way he lived—with compassion, humility, and gratitude. In his later years, he found great comfort and joy in attending church services, especially enjoying the hymns that stirred both memory and spirit. He had a good singing voice and loved joining in, often with a smile and a strong, steady tone that reflected his deep appreciation for the music and message.

Jerry leaves behind a legacy defined by generosity, boundless energy, and an unwavering love for people. He dreamed big and got big things done—yet never lost sight of the individual in front of him. Whether planning a large-scale project, organizing a family adventure, or simply sharing a moment of conversation, he was fully present—listening, encouraging, and connecting with a sparkle in his eye and his signature laugh close behind. Jerry packed more into a day, a week, a year, and a lifetime than most could imagine, always striving to be his best and to bring out the best in others.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

You don’t have to give anything—your love, memories, and support are more than enough. But in lieu of flowers, if you feel moved to honor Jerry’s memory in a lasting way, donations may be made to the Jerry W. Gorby Scholarship Fund at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. This fund provides financial assistance to students pursuing higher education, reflecting Jerry’s lifelong commitment to education and his belief in the power of learning to transform lives. To contribute, visit: https://www.uww.edu/foundation/how-to-give/give-now . Scroll down to Designation and select Jerry W Gorby Scholarship from the dropdown menu. If you prefer to give offline: Checks can be made payable to UW-Whitewater Foundation, Inc. Please include the name of the fund you wish to support in the memo line of the check, and mail your donation to:

UW-Whitewater Foundation, Inc. Alumni Center 800 W Main St Whitewater, WI 53190

True to Jerry’s spirit—and his love of a good old fashioned, both the drink and the kind of gathering—please join us for a Celebration of Life in Whitewater, Wisconsin, where we’ll share stories, laughter, and memories in a way that would make him smile. Details will be shared soon on this website.