Gerald "Jerry" Chatham

Gerald K. “Jerry” Chatham, aged 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

Born August 17, 1939, in Champaign, Illinois, to Leonard and Opal “Ruth” (Radliff) Chatham, he was raised in central Illinois and the St. Louis area, graduating from Kirkwood High School. He attended the Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy (now the Missouri University of Science and Technology), earning his bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering. As a dedicated member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, he formed deep, lifelong friendships that brought him immense joy throughout his life.

Jerry proudly served his country as a naval aviator during the Vietnam War. As a Lieutenant attached to Air Anti-Submarine Squadron 33 (VS-33), the "World Famous Screwbirds," he deployed aboard the aircraft carrier USS Bennington for major Western Pacific cruises in 1965 and 1966–1967, flying the Grumman S-2E Tracker on critical surveillance and search-and-rescue missions.

While stationed at Naval Air Station North Island on Coronado, he met Ethel “Mary” Clarke, who had studied at the University of San Diego. They were married in San Diego on February 24, 1968.

Following his naval service, Jerry and Mary settled in McHenry, Illinois, where Jerry enjoyed a long career as a pilot with United Airlines from 1968 until his retirement in 1999. A devoted father who was a constant presence at his sons' sports and scouting activities, he also served a term as president of the village of Prairie Grove.

In 2002, they moved to a log home they built on Table Rock Lake in Eagle Rock, Missouri. A hardworking and resourceful man, Jerry was happiest outdoors—whether fishing, working on cars or tractors, or maintaining the property. He always found joy in the simple pleasures of a newspaper, a cup of coffee, and the company of family and friends that he made across every chapter of his life.

Jerry is survived by his sons, Brian (Dawn) Chatham of Pleasanton, California, and Craig (Kendra) Chatham of Crystal Lake, Illinois; his grandchildren, Miles, Colin, Emerson, Elise, and Ashlyn; and his siblings, Larry Chatham and Sherryl Chatham (Bob Huneke).

He was preceded in death by two sons, Michael (1987) and Mark (1974); his wife, Mary (2007); and his parents.

A graveside funeral service with military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, at Crystal Lake Memorial Park Cemetery. All family and friends are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association .