Robert Gerald "Jerry" Birdsong

In Loving Memory of Robert "Jerry" Gerald Birdsong
Robert "Jerry" Gerald Birdsong, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a steadfast man of faith, went home to be with the Lord surrounded by his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Annette Birdsong; his son, Mike Birdsong; his daughter, Lisa Lanier; grandchildren Jim, Kevin, Robbie, David, Hunter, Harrison, and Lillie; and great-grandchildren Hailey, Ryan, Ben, Meredith, Alyssa, Elliot, Westley, and Lucy.
Jerry's life was defined by his unwavering faith, his love for family, and his tireless commitment to serving others. A longtime and deeply involved member of First Baptist Orlando, Jerry faithfully served as Chairman of the Deacons and participated in mission trips that took him and Annette all over the world, spreading the Gospel and sharing the good news of Christ for more than 30 years. His heart for ministry extended to serving in prison ministries, where he touched countless lives spreading compassion and hope.
Born with a passion for leadership and teamwork, Jerry attended and graduated from Georgia State College, where he was captain of the Georgia State basketball team. An enthusiastic sports fan, he loved rooting for the Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Braves and Orlando Magic, finding in their games the same camaraderie and drive that defined his own life.
Jerry proudly served his country as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves for over 20 years, a role that reflected his strength, dedication, and unwavering sense of duty.
Professionally, Jerry built an extraordinary career in medical sales that included founding Birdsong Medical Sales, an independent manufacturer's representative firm. He was a respected leader in his industry, serving six terms as Director of the Health Industry Representatives Association (HIRA) and earning admiration for his integrity, mentorship, and entrepreneurial vision.
Even in his later years, Jerry's energy and joy for life never waned. For the past 15 years, he faithfully went to Planet Fitness four days a week, where he not only stayed active but also formed genuine friendships with many of the patrons. His warm smile, kindness, and ability to make friends with anyone he met were hallmarks of his personality.
Above all, Jerry will be remembered for his bold faith, servant's heart, and devotion to family. His life was a powerful testimony to God's grace and faithfulness. His gentle spirit, compassion for others, and unwavering faith embodied what it truly means to live a Christ-centered life. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the love he shared, and the example he set of a life well-lived in the service of God and others.
Funeral services celebrating Jerry's life will be held on Monday, October 13th, at 2:00 p.m. in Henry Chapel at the First Baptist Orlando campus. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. immediately prior to the service, with military honors and a reception to follow in Faith Hall.
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