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Gerald Florence Obituary
Born and raised in Hammond, Indiana to Charles and Priscilla Florence, Jerry was the eldest of six children: Jack, Carol, Dale, Lila and Barbara. He graduated from Purdue University with a degree in electrical engineering. After serving two years in the Army, he built a distinguished career in defense electronics, working at Bendix, Sanders (now BAE) in New Hampshire, Litton ATD in Santa Clara, and Unisys in Reston, Virginia. He was instrumental in bringing the Compass Call program to the U.S. military, a system that neutralizes enemy air defenses. Jerry later served as CEO of UTL Corp in Dallas, Texas, and as Vice President for Business Development at ARGOSystems, a Boeing subsidiary, in Santa Clara, California.
Jerry and his wife, RoyAnne, shared a deep passion for sailing. They sailed their 34-foot Sabre sailboat on the Chesapeake Bay, shipped it to Texas, and eventually to the San Francisco Bay, where Jerry became a member of the San Francisco Yacht Club. In retirement, he enjoyed fly fishing, playing guitar, traveling to distant destinations with RoyAnne, and spending time with his family.
Jerry was preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Florence. He is survived by his wife, RoyAnne Florence; his children, Lisa Florence, Lynn Mayo, and Peter Florence; three grandchildren, Cathy and Philip Mayo, and Alexandra Florence Gilbert; five great-grandchildren; and RoyAnne's extended family.
There will be no memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Cancer Society.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gerald Florence
1 Entry
Ann Stoltz
October 17, 2025
A life well lived! After an interesting and accomplished career, Jerry peacefully left this world; departing from his home with Royanne by his side. He loved and was loved in return. Could we ask for more?
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