Girard N Campbell

Girard Norman Campbell, "Jerry", returned to his Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, on Sunday, December 30th, 2018. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 17th, 1928. Predeceased by his parents, Dr. Thurman A. Campbell and Julia Lombardi Campbell, brother and sister-in-law Dr. Gordon and Ruth Campbell. Survived by his dearly loved family: wife Fedora Lewis Campbell, son and daughter-in-law Mark Girard and Kimberly White Campbell, daughter and son-in-law Lee and Marlo Campbell Lane, and granddaughter Eliza Espy. Jerry graduated from Chicago's North Park Academy, class of 1946. Always active, he excelled in both sports and music. With a few of his closest friends, he formed a dance band, "The Melody Makers", in which he played lead trumpet. A scholarship to play football brought him to the South, beginning a lifetime love affair with the University of Georgia. Although derailed by an injury his Freshman year, he continued his college education and enjoyed playing baseball for the surrounding Mill leagues in Northeast Georgia. As a local favorite, Jerry caught the attention of scouts, leading to a tryout with the Chicago White Sox. Jerry was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity and served as their President. He graduated from Georgia in 1952 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Following graduation, Jerry moved to Bradenton, Florida, where his parents had recently retired. He accepted a position with the Boys Club of Manatee County where he coached baseball and basketball and served as activities director. Hired away by a stock brokerage firm, Jerry Campbell soon discovered a passion for helping others with their financial planning- a passion that would bring him great success and fulfillment. Jerry spent 52 years with Merrill Lynch, receiving countless awards and honors. Serving as manager and 1st Vice President, he was instrumental in establishing Merrill Lynch in Bradenton. Jerry Campbell's other activities included membership in the Lion's Club, Kiwanis, Florida Children's Home Society, and the DeSoto Heritage Festival. Jerry was a member of DeSoto's Crewe and received the Carter Ives, Royal S. Kellogg, and W.D. Sugg awards (twice). He was an active member and proud supporter of both West Bradenton Baptist Church and First Presbyterian Church. He served in many capacities; deacon, Sunday School teacher, finance and other committees. Jerry taught Basic Finance and Economics for many years at Manatee Community College (now State College of Florida). He was a popular and much-requested speaker on financial planning, both locally and across the country for Merrill Lynch. Jerry Campbell will forever be loved and remembered for his enthusiastic spirit, his quick humor, integrity, compassion, and utter devotion to his family. Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 4th, at 11am at First Presbyterian Church, 1402 Manatee Avenue West, with a reception to follow in the church Fellowship Hall. A private burial will take place at Manasota Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church music ministry or the building fund, or to a worthy charity of one's choosing.