Obituary: Gerald S. Insley

Gerald S. Insley

Gerald S. Insley

Gerald S. Insley died Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013, at his home in Ashland, Ore., due to a recently diagnosed brain tumor.

Born July 5, 1927, in Prescott, Ariz., Jerry was the son of Russ and Bernice Insley, and brother of Ted.

Jerry was an educator, as well as active community volunteer. He was a member of the Ashland Lions Club. He participated in the building of park benches, cooking the 4th of July barbecues, picking up Christmas trees to be mulched for the city, and many more activities. In the late 1970s, he was a member of the Ashland School Board.

He was a proud member of the Medford Hangar of the Quiet Birdmen, greatly enjoying the camaraderie of his fellow pilots.

Jerry taught junior high and high school in Prescott as well, and coached football and track. He loved the kids and joyfully went to their reunions, keeping in contact with former students, who were like a second family. He was very proud of all their accomplishments, bragging about them while keeping in touch with many.

Jerry maintained his lifelong connections to Prescott, Ariz., where he grew up, raised a little hell and started his family.

He was a professor of physical education at Southern Oregon State College from 1966 to 1989. He coached both men and women's track and field. Jerry guided many students as they transitioned into their own careers as educators and coaches nationwide.

Following his service in the Navy in 1947, Jerry attended and graduated from Arizona State University, earning his Bachelor's of Education and his Master's in Education. In 1966, he earned his Doctor of Education from the University of Oregon.

As a pilot, Jerry proved you never stop learning, enjoying trips and flying aerobatics. As a father and husband, Jerry showed us what it meant to know there was always someone in your corner, cheering you on and loving you. As a man, Jerry was a role model to us all.

Jerry Insley is survived by his wife of 64 years, Lillian; his children, Colin Insley of Littleton, Colo., daughter Kim Insley, and son-in-law Pete Lentine; and granddaughters Alyssa and Sara (Robin) of Plymouth, Minn.

Information provided by survivors.


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