With Sadness - Jerry Churchill, RIP

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Jerry outside of Veracruz on Day 1 of the 2006 La Carrera

It is with sadness that I relay this message about the recent passing of Jerry Churchill, an icon of La Carrera. Even though I only knew Jerry in passing from the last two years of La Carrera, it struck me with clarity how connected we all are to each other, and in this case through our shared adventures at La Carrera. The people with whom I have crossed paths at La Carrera are a special family to me. I send my blessings to the family and friends of Jerry.
From: Gerie Bledsoe

Sent: Monday, June 09, 2008 6:25 PM

Subject: Jerry Churchill -- RIP

Amigos:

Our friend and Carrera racer Jerry Churchill passed away last Saturday from complications arising from surgery. His presence will be missed.

I admired Jerry above all for stepping up to help the Mexican nurse, Lupita Hernandez, who lost both of her legs in 2003 in a Carrera racing accident. Jerry made sure that Lupita got a little check from us every six weeks. For Jerry and Lupita, we certainly want to continue that support. His commitment to her health and future illustrated a big heart under that tough exterior.

For Jerry La Carrera Panamerican was the Big Show and like many of us old timers, an autumn passion. He, Jim, Judy, Muriel, his beautiful yellow Studebaker and crew will be greatly missed this year in Tuxtla Gutierrez.

I will forward the information about the memorial service in Detroit just as soon as I receive it.

Sempre Fi!

Gerie


Obituary


Eugene Gerald (Jerry) Churchill, son of Helen Bernice and Randolph Churchill. Born Detroit, Michigan, late of Fort Myers, Florida. Beloved husband of Doris (Boyle). Father of Randy Churchill and Gwen King of Windsor, Ontario. Adored brother of Muriel Kay Weaver of Rio Rico, Arizona. Dear uncle of Clayton Smith, South Woodslee, Ontario. Dear stepfather of Joey Boyle of Monroe, MI, Kevin Boyle of Fort Myers, FL and David of Windsor Ontario. Grandchildren, Randolph, Jennifer, David, Ryan, Joey, Megan, Travis, Andrew, Bridgette, Dillon.

Gerald was a prominent member of the business community and founder of Churchill Transportation of Detroit. Jerry had an extended and varied racing career which covered many countries. Longtime participant in many racing series including ARCA and Nascar. Jerry was a avid captain and recently received his 100 ton vessel license. Jerry loved adventure.

Cremation will take place on Monday June 9th in Fort Myers, FL. Arrangements for a memorial service in Detroit are incomplete.

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