Obituary of Gerald Creadon

Gerald “Jerry” Creadon, born February 2, 1948 in Cuyahoga, Ohio passed away on April 24, 2022. Jerry is survived by his wife of 55 years, Okye Creadon; his daughter Barbara Creadon Metzler, her husband Michael Metzler and their sons – Michael Metzler Jr. (JR) and Prescott Julian Metzler; his daughter Beverly Creadon Frank and her husband Douglas Craig Frank; and, his son Gerald Creadon Jr. (JJ), his wife Victoria Olchanskaia Creadon and children – Springfield, Gerald III (JT), Ethan, Polina and Kira Creadon; his brothers Vincent and Timothy Creadon; and, his sister Cheryl Buchen.

Jerry served his country for over thirty years in the United States Army, full-time active National Guard and Army Reserves. He achieved the rank of Sargent First Class (E-7) with numerous medals and honors of distinction including the Distinguished Service Medal for performance of exceptionally meritorious service to the Florida National Guard. After his distinguished years of military service, he worked as a machine support supervisor for building maintenance, retiring after 23 years of service to Jabil.

Jerry loved the mechanics of things. He had an analytical mind and enjoyed the challenge of figuring out how things were made or went together. He loved fishing – especially when it gave him time to spend with his son and grandchildren. He could sit in silent contemplation for hours in the middle of his boisterous family watching everyone interact – acting as our anchor and our compass.

Jerry’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was an adoring grandfather, a wonderful husband, and extraordinary father. His kindness, strength and character have left the world a better place and the qualities of self-determination, work ethic and generosity instilled in his family are a cherished legacy. His rare smile or belly-laugh would light up the room and will forever light up our hearts.

The funeral will be on Thursday, May 5th, 1:00pm sharp (Military time!) at Sarasota National Cemetery. Following the service (allowing for travel time), and for those not able to join us in Sarasota, there will be a reception and celebration of life at the Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center (3-6:30pm).