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Celebrating the life of

Gerald K. "Jerry" Williamson

September 27, 1931 - May 18, 2015

Gerald K.

Jerry was born in Springfield, Massachusetts to Edith and Frank Williamson.  He was the youngest brother of Robert, Frank and Richard Williamson, and older brother to Mary Sue (Williamson) Kellaway. 

 At age 2 he and his family moved to Australia until age 9 when the family relocated back to Massachusetts.  Jerry went back to school in Massachusetts and loved to play soccer.  After high school Jerry attended Johns Hopkins University where he received his Bachelors degree.  He was then drafted into the Army where he spent 2 years.  While in the Army, Jerry learned how to fly and later owned his own plane.  After his discharge from the Army he returned to Savannah, Georgia where he lived with his brother Bob and his family and became a teacher at Savannah Country Day School, and of course, the soccer coach.  While under Jerry's tutelage, they won several state championships.  He then decided to get his Masters Degree from University of Georgia.

 Jerry loved to be outdoors snake hunting or tagging turtles or turning over rocks for salamanders.  Jerry along with Dr. James D. Anderson did extensive research on the salamander population in the State of Georgia and Florida.  Together they published several periodicals and books on the subject.

Jerry became the Director of the Savannah Science Museum where he started many clubs to help the youth of Savannah appreciate the beautiful city and state they lived in as well as a respect for all living creatures.  One of Jerry's clubs at the museum was the Herpetology Club where his students love to go snake hunting with Jerry and still are doing it today.

 After leaving the museum Jerry needed a new project to do, so he decided to delve into his lineage and start collecting data on his relatives.  Jerry never does anything in a small way.  He not only did his family but he did his brothers' wives families and cousins, etc.  In his genealogy data base he has approximately 32,000 names.  But his love of the outdoors was again calling to him.

 His next project was the Savannah Ogeechee Canal.  He could be seen many days cutting grass or burning brush or clearing a path to make the Canal ascetic pleasing for all the visitors who came.  He and his best friend Bobby Moulis worked very hard to educate people on the Canal as well as the animals and reptiles that inhabit it and the beautiful flowers that abound.  Jerry would ride around on the golf cart with his faithful companion "Geechee" and they were checking out the paths and canal surroundings. With his "adopted son" Bobby Moulis they have kept the Canal a beautiful and educational place to visit.

 Jerry's legacy will live on  in the lives he touched as a teacher, friend and companion to the people of Savannah.

 In lieu of flowers, Jerry requested that donations be made to the Savannah Ogeechee Canal Society.

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GUEST BOOK

I met "Jerry" while at Savannah Commons, Savannah. His passion was the Ogeechee Canal and he drew me in like the Pied Piper. I spent many wonderful hours riding around with Jerry on the golf cart and exploring the wonders of "his" place. He knew the history like he wrote it himself. After moving from Savannah I return once to ride again with him. It was the last time we visited together. I returned to Savannah twice and discovered he was ill and in hospital. I could not find him and was saddened. When I learned of his demise my heart was grieved for I loved him as my brother. He was a wonderful and gifted individual with a pleasing personality. I miss him and pray for Bobby, Pam and family, may the Lord bless them.

- bill Johnson, Woodbine, Ga

While I did not meet Jerry until recently through the Canal Society Museum, I found him to be an immediate friend. His life experiences and outlook were truly to be appreciated and I gained a quick respect for Jerry. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing. He was wonderful to know, even if it was for a short while. My condolences to his family and many friends and especially to the Canal Society who I know will miss him dearly.

- Susanne Grieve, Greenville, NC

Jerry was an amazing teacher an coach! I loved him dearly in both roles. Our class of 66 went undefeated for 4 years under his leadership; quite a testament to his leadership skills. Thank you for the memories!!!! Gordon Maner '66

- Gordon Maner, Athens, Ga

I was hired at Country Day when Jerry took his new job at the Science Museum. I was very green with minimal teaching experience and will be forever grateful to Jerry for his willingness to assist me as I struggled with a variety of challenges associated with my new responsibilities. I also took a number of "herping" field trips with Jerry and his gang. His enthusiasm and love of nature were contagious. Please accept my deepest condolences.

- Steve Perrill, Indianapolis, IN

Jerry was such a kind and gentle man. He and his brother's Family lived next door to us for many years He tought me not to be afraid of snakes. This was a big feat, since I grew up with older brothers, that constantly tried to frighten me with snakes! Just a year or so ago, I saw Jerrynin the grocery store and he knew me immediately. We had a nice vist and enjoyed catching up with each other.

- Nita Ann Knight Klein , Savannah , Ga

My memories of Jerry are from Biology class, the soccer team and driving Schley Knight's red tractor for him cutting the grass around Country Day in the summer. He was a remarkable person, a renaissance man in his own unique way.

- Dwight Kelley, Savannah, GA

Great teacher and coach - so much a part of the early years at SCDS. We were so lucky to have had such good and caring faculty. Jerry Williamson will be remembered fondly!

- Debbe Perry, Morganton, NC

I am so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. The first thing I thought of when I saw this notice was his smile. He was a wonderful teacher and his enthusiasm for science was contagious. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

- Cyra Beckwith Peterson, Canton, GA

A Great Picture. And a super soccer coach. I still teach young ones the different way he taught us to kick. When Jerry coached, we won. He counted shots on goal and was with us in 1967 when SCDS retired the Tri State trophy. Back in the Day....thank you Coach Jerry Williamson.

- Scott Backus, Savannah, Ga

Jerry was a true friend and great teacher - one of the best at SCDS. I enjoyed soccer, biology, and detention under Jerry. I will miss him greatly.

- Sam Lynah, charleston, SC - South Carolina

What a fine man Jerry Williamson was! He effected so many people in so many positive ways. Some of my best recollections of life as a teenager at SCDS involve Jerry. He was a good Educator, Coach and mentor to many young Savannahians but to the Class of 64 at SCDS he was "the Best". We just recently had our 50 th Class reunion and he was the only teacher invited. He showed up with newts and salamanders in jars of formaldehyde and all kinds of information on his current project out at the canal. He was an educator until the end. I regret not spending more time with Jerry as an adult. He will be missed by many. God bless you Jerry and Thanks!

- Joe Wells, Savannah, Ga

I so enjoyed being around Jerry. His work (with Bobby) in the southeast has long inspired me, he was such a dedicated scholar. Most of all I will miss his kindness, his thoughtful smile...A great man.

- Dirk Stevenson, Hinesville, GA

Eternal rest grant unto him Oh Lord , and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen

- Kelley and Ned Durden, Savannah, Ga.

Jerry was an amazing person who touched more people than he will ever know. Most importantly, he was a formative and positive influence in many young peoples lives. Yet, he also made significant contributes to science. Jerry's work collecting critters with students, friends and colleagues generated an unparalleled record of biodiversity for our region. This body of work can never be duplicated as many places and populations are now gone forever. Although we will all miss Jerry, his scientific legacy is permanent and will live on. Through this legacy, he will continue to make a positive impact on people's lives for generations to come. I am proud to have known Jerry, and I will be proud to continue to tell his story.

- Lance McBrayer, Statesboro, Georgia

I met Mr. Williamson for the first time, with a turtle that had been hit by a car, when I was 9 years old. He invited me to the back to see him, when I came back to visit again and talked to me about the Herp Club..He sat me down in a library to read about snakes and learn about them before he allowed me to join, which certainly changed my life. The days at Wassaw, the days at Okeetee, Ft. Stewart, and the frozen water in South Carolina will always be in my thoughts. It is also where I met some of my life long friends and hunting buddies. Recently rode with him on his golf cart out at the SOCM to view some of his discoveries. What a great man and friend. I will miss him greatly. God bless Bobby, Pam, and the family..

- MARK WALLACE, RICHMOND HILL, GA

Jerry was a fixture of the Science Museum. When I arrived at the museum in 1972, he informed me that we were going to start a Loggerhead Sea Turtle project on Wassaw that summer. He had made the decision, so there was no turning back. We struggled through the first few summers and then the project took off, and is flying high. He has influenced many young people to take up the challenge of science. He was a tireless, and I mean tireless, herpetologist. He could be out hunting most of the night and be ready to go the next morning. I enjoyed his company on the turtle project or at the museum. We shared many a bottle in late night discussions in his Winnebago behind the museum. He always showed me the highest integrity in his science work. He should also be recognized for his teaching at SCDS, starting the boys soccer team there, and managing the maintenance of the buildings on the campus. My last conversation with him was about the canal. I hope we can all come together and finish his dream. He has been a really positive influence in my life.

- Deacon Milmine, Savannah, GA

What a great guy. My favorite teacher at SCDS.

- Bill Lynes, Savannah, Ga

Yes, the great Man would like that photo. It's a fleeting glimpse of when the Herpetologist's spirit soared; it brings tears to my eyes. We'll miss you Mr. Williamson.

- Jimmy, Lisa & Morgan Waters, Springfield, GA

There are not enough words to say how much Mr. Williamson will be missed at Savannah Commons, by staff and residents alike. I'm so blessed to have known him and heard some of his many stories. What an amazing person!

- Jessica Schroyer, Savannah Commons, Savannah , GA - Georgia

Jerry was a great person and teacher. It was a privilege to know him. He would love the photo! Kay Henry, Washington DC

- Kay Henry, Washington, DC

The Science Museum, the Caretta Research Project, the Fort Stewart Survey, the Great Wall of Hardeeville....the list of activities you involved all the budding young herpetologists of Savannah in are endless. Gerry was a positive influence and role model for so many young people, he will be greatly missed! It was a pleasure to know and work with him.

- Bob and Linda Graham, Savannah, Georgia

Another of the bright lights in life has blinked out. Gerry was a phenomenal man & uncle. One of my fondest childhood memories is Gerry taking Andrew & I out for a twilight drive in his orange corvette. Cooler still, he let us help scrape up a flattened owl for the museum. A seminal moment in the path I walk today! Very much enjoyed reading about the canal adventures in later years. Bobby - thank you from the bottom of my heart for being his friend, and for all you have done since! Susan madsen

- Susan Williamson Madsen, Bellingham, Wa

I met "Jerry" while at Savannah Commons, Savannah. His passion was the Ogeechee Canal and he drew me in like the Pied Piper. I spent many wonderful hours riding around with Jerry on the golf cart and exploring the wonders of "his" place. He knew the history like he wrote it himself. After moving from Savannah I return once to ride again with him. It was the last time we visited together. I returned to Savannah twice and discovered he was ill and in hospital. I could not find him and was saddened. When I learned of his demise my heart was grieved for I loved him as my brother. He was a wonderful and gifted individual with a pleasing personality. I miss him and pray for Bobby, Pam and family, may the Lord bless them.

- bill Johnson, Woodbine, Ga

While I did not meet Jerry until recently through the Canal Society Museum, I found him to be an immediate friend. His life experiences and outlook were truly to be appreciated and I gained a quick respect for Jerry. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing. He was wonderful to know, even if it was for a short while. My condolences to his family and many friends and especially to the Canal Society who I know will miss him dearly.

- Susanne Grieve, Greenville, NC

Jerry was an amazing teacher an coach! I loved him dearly in both roles. Our class of 66 went undefeated for 4 years under his leadership; quite a testament to his leadership skills. Thank you for the memories!!!! Gordon Maner '66

- Gordon Maner, Athens, Ga

I was hired at Country Day when Jerry took his new job at the Science Museum. I was very green with minimal teaching experience and will be forever grateful to Jerry for his willingness to assist me as I struggled with a variety of challenges associated with my new responsibilities. I also took a number of "herping" field trips with Jerry and his gang. His enthusiasm and love of nature were contagious. Please accept my deepest condolences.

- Steve Perrill, Indianapolis, IN

Jerry was such a kind and gentle man. He and his brother's Family lived next door to us for many years He tought me not to be afraid of snakes. This was a big feat, since I grew up with older brothers, that constantly tried to frighten me with snakes! Just a year or so ago, I saw Jerrynin the grocery store and he knew me immediately. We had a nice vist and enjoyed catching up with each other.

- Nita Ann Knight Klein , Savannah , Ga

My memories of Jerry are from Biology class, the soccer team and driving Schley Knight's red tractor for him cutting the grass around Country Day in the summer. He was a remarkable person, a renaissance man in his own unique way.

- Dwight Kelley, Savannah, GA

Great teacher and coach - so much a part of the early years at SCDS. We were so lucky to have had such good and caring faculty. Jerry Williamson will be remembered fondly!

- Debbe Perry, Morganton, NC

I am so sorry to hear of Jerry's passing. The first thing I thought of when I saw this notice was his smile. He was a wonderful teacher and his enthusiasm for science was contagious. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

- Cyra Beckwith Peterson, Canton, GA

A Great Picture. And a super soccer coach. I still teach young ones the different way he taught us to kick. When Jerry coached, we won. He counted shots on goal and was with us in 1967 when SCDS retired the Tri State trophy. Back in the Day....thank you Coach Jerry Williamson.

- Scott Backus, Savannah, Ga

Jerry was a true friend and great teacher - one of the best at SCDS. I enjoyed soccer, biology, and detention under Jerry. I will miss him greatly.

- Sam Lynah, charleston, SC - South Carolina

What a fine man Jerry Williamson was! He effected so many people in so many positive ways. Some of my best recollections of life as a teenager at SCDS involve Jerry. He was a good Educator, Coach and mentor to many young Savannahians but to the Class of 64 at SCDS he was "the Best". We just recently had our 50 th Class reunion and he was the only teacher invited. He showed up with newts and salamanders in jars of formaldehyde and all kinds of information on his current project out at the canal. He was an educator until the end. I regret not spending more time with Jerry as an adult. He will be missed by many. God bless you Jerry and Thanks!

- Joe Wells, Savannah, Ga

I so enjoyed being around Jerry. His work (with Bobby) in the southeast has long inspired me, he was such a dedicated scholar. Most of all I will miss his kindness, his thoughtful smile...A great man.

- Dirk Stevenson, Hinesville, GA

Eternal rest grant unto him Oh Lord , and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen

- Kelley and Ned Durden, Savannah, Ga.

Jerry was an amazing person who touched more people than he will ever know. Most importantly, he was a formative and positive influence in many young peoples lives. Yet, he also made significant contributes to science. Jerry's work collecting critters with students, friends and colleagues generated an unparalleled record of biodiversity for our region. This body of work can never be duplicated as many places and populations are now gone forever. Although we will all miss Jerry, his scientific legacy is permanent and will live on. Through this legacy, he will continue to make a positive impact on people's lives for generations to come. I am proud to have known Jerry, and I will be proud to continue to tell his story.

- Lance McBrayer, Statesboro, Georgia

I met Mr. Williamson for the first time, with a turtle that had been hit by a car, when I was 9 years old. He invited me to the back to see him, when I came back to visit again and talked to me about the Herp Club..He sat me down in a library to read about snakes and learn about them before he allowed me to join, which certainly changed my life. The days at Wassaw, the days at Okeetee, Ft. Stewart, and the frozen water in South Carolina will always be in my thoughts. It is also where I met some of my life long friends and hunting buddies. Recently rode with him on his golf cart out at the SOCM to view some of his discoveries. What a great man and friend. I will miss him greatly. God bless Bobby, Pam, and the family..

- MARK WALLACE, RICHMOND HILL, GA

Jerry was a fixture of the Science Museum. When I arrived at the museum in 1972, he informed me that we were going to start a Loggerhead Sea Turtle project on Wassaw that summer. He had made the decision, so there was no turning back. We struggled through the first few summers and then the project took off, and is flying high. He has influenced many young people to take up the challenge of science. He was a tireless, and I mean tireless, herpetologist. He could be out hunting most of the night and be ready to go the next morning. I enjoyed his company on the turtle project or at the museum. We shared many a bottle in late night discussions in his Winnebago behind the museum. He always showed me the highest integrity in his science work. He should also be recognized for his teaching at SCDS, starting the boys soccer team there, and managing the maintenance of the buildings on the campus. My last conversation with him was about the canal. I hope we can all come together and finish his dream. He has been a really positive influence in my life.

- Deacon Milmine, Savannah, GA

What a great guy. My favorite teacher at SCDS.

- Bill Lynes, Savannah, Ga

Yes, the great Man would like that photo. It's a fleeting glimpse of when the Herpetologist's spirit soared; it brings tears to my eyes. We'll miss you Mr. Williamson.

- Jimmy, Lisa & Morgan Waters, Springfield, GA

There are not enough words to say how much Mr. Williamson will be missed at Savannah Commons, by staff and residents alike. I'm so blessed to have known him and heard some of his many stories. What an amazing person!

- Jessica Schroyer, Savannah Commons, Savannah , GA - Georgia

Jerry was a great person and teacher. It was a privilege to know him. He would love the photo! Kay Henry, Washington DC

- Kay Henry, Washington, DC

The Science Museum, the Caretta Research Project, the Fort Stewart Survey, the Great Wall of Hardeeville....the list of activities you involved all the budding young herpetologists of Savannah in are endless. Gerry was a positive influence and role model for so many young people, he will be greatly missed! It was a pleasure to know and work with him.

- Bob and Linda Graham, Savannah, Georgia

Another of the bright lights in life has blinked out. Gerry was a phenomenal man & uncle. One of my fondest childhood memories is Gerry taking Andrew & I out for a twilight drive in his orange corvette. Cooler still, he let us help scrape up a flattened owl for the museum. A seminal moment in the path I walk today! Very much enjoyed reading about the canal adventures in later years. Bobby - thank you from the bottom of my heart for being his friend, and for all you have done since! Susan madsen

- Susan Williamson Madsen, Bellingham, Wa

Services under the direction of:

Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200