Jere FISHBACK

FISHBACK, Jere M. On December 11, 2021, Jere left this world due to pancreatic cancer. As he wished, Jere was in his home with his sister, Linda. He was born on October 23, 1951, to Jo Ann Wolford Fishback and Martin P. Fishback, Jr. A life-long St. Petersburg resident, Jere graduated from Boca Ciega High School. He earned a degree in Journalism from the University of Florida and subsequently a Juris Doctor with honors from Florida State University. Returning home, Jere opened his law office in downtown St.Petersburg, where he practiced as a successful and respected trial lawyer for many years. After closing his practice, in 2004, Jere relocated to his beloved Pass-a-Grille. Always the storyteller, he rekindled his interest in journalism by becoming an author of fiction for which he received several literary awards. Jere had friends worldwide, many known since childhood, and he considered them family. A love of fishing took Jere to his fish camp on the Chassahowitzka River, and he shared it with family and friends of all ages. He mentored exchange students as well as local young people who remain close friends. Jere traveled the world surfing, hiking, partying, appreciating different cultures and nature's gifts. His was a full life. An ardent supporter of education, Jere established the Jere M. Fishback Fund for Foreign-Born Students at St. Petersburg College to benefit academically gifted students with financial need. Contributions to this fund may be made in Jere's memory through the College Foundation. A gathering to celebrate Jere's remarkable life will be held in Pass-a-Grille. We miss him already.