GERALD LEE "JERRY" PENCE of Sebastian, Florida, left this world peacefully on February 16, 2023 while in the loving care of his family.

Born October 15, 1939 in Dayton, Ohio, he is preceded to rest by his parents, GERALD GILBERT PENCE and KATHERYN IRENE HAINES , his younger brother THOMAS ALLEN PENCE , his former wife MARTHA LYNN "DOODLE" BRENT , and his great-granddaughter LIVELY JENSEN .

Jerry is survived by his supportive wife of 20 years, MAUREEN MILLER PENCE , 3 children: Keely Pence Haas (Wesley), Karley Pence Unger , and Gerald Patrick Pence (Heather), 4 step-children: Robert "Chris" Wiley (Rita), Shannon Wiley, Daryl Wile y (Rebecca), Brian Wiley (Carrie), 13 grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Relocating to Florida with his family in the 1950s, he graduated from Lake Worth High School, Class of 1958. While there, he lettered in athletics and participated in civic volunteerism, all while helping to manage the family's local bowling alleys, where he met his first wife, Doodle.

After graduating, Jerry served his country by joining the US Navy, where he was Honorably Discharged, after being stationed for 3 years in the Florida Keys.

Jerry was tirelessly active with the Boy Scouts of America, first as a youth, earning the Eagle Scout Award in 1955, then as an adult leader with his own family, and later employed as Camp Ranger for Tanah Keeta Scout Reservation for 16 years, beginning in 1985 until his retirement. During that time, he exemplified both the Scout Oath and Scout Law , and was a role model for thousands of youths, volunteers, and friends.

Always able to balance his work at camp with local civic organizations, Jerry was an active member of the Jupiter/Tequesta Rotary Club, building a large corps of cheerful volunteers who donated their time and resources to both Tanah Keeta and other local charitable events. He was also a faithful member of the Scottish Rite Masonic Lodge of Lake Worth for over 60 years, where he attained the 32nd Degree.

Jerry made friends easily, even while always speaking his mind. He was passionate about the outdoors, and a protector of nature. When not working 14-hour days, Jerry was a lover of trips to the movies, possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of Western films, and was very skilled when seated at the card game table. Always quick with a smile, he was never short of advice when anyone needed it. His most appropriate legacy is the Vigil Honor name bestowed upon him in 1986, 'Nochnateemaliuwet Wulakanink', or Keeper of the Good Land . His hard work and dedication to Tanah Keeta will be remembered by all.

Memorial services will be planned for a later time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made in Jerry's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and/or The Shriners Hospitals for Children.