Jerry Harwood

Jerry Harwood (born Edward Joseph Vadimsky Jr.), 92, the oldest of five boys, passed away on April 29, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, dedication, and a life fully lived.

Born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Jerry was a natural athlete, excelling in both basketball and baseball during his high school years. Though he earned a full basketball scholarship to George Washington University, his love for baseball led him down a different path. He chose to pursue a professional baseball career, beginning in the minor leagues in Cocoa, Florida, where he played first base for the Cocoa Indians, an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. It was there that Jerry developed a lifelong love for the state of Florida. After a career-ending injury, he went on to serve his country in the United States Army for two years.

Following his military service, Jerry returned to New Jersey to study radio broadcasting, but Florida soon called him back. He began working as a radio announcer in Lake City, Florida, where he met the love of his life, Sandra. During that time, he legally changed his name to his radio announcer name. The two married and built a beautiful life together, first in Lakeland and later in Palm Bay.

Jerry’s career was as dynamic as his personality. During the height of the Space Race, he worked as a realtor for GDC, helping families find homes in a growing community. He later spent more than 25 years as a Marketing Manager for Harris Corporation, where he built lasting professional relationships and friendships.

Beyond his career, Jerry was deeply committed to his community. He founded the Palm Bay Jaycees in 1964 and served as President. This chapter was part of the United States Junior Chamber service organization for young leaders. Jerry also coached Little League baseball for over 10 years and was an active member of the Palm Bay Zoning and Planning. He was especially devoted to the Palm Bay High School athletic booster club, playing a key role in securing lighting for the baseball field and helping build the original dugouts. Many also knew him as the “Voice of the Pirates,” enthusiastically announcing local football games.

Jerry was a man of creativity and craftsmanship. He loved woodworking and had the rare ability to bring any idea to life with his hands. Over the years, he built three homes, including two cherished vacation homes in the mountains of North Carolina, where he and Sandra spent many happy summers in retirement. There, he continued creating, building, and sharing his talents with those around him.

He also found great joy in fishing, spending time outdoors, and entertaining his three grandsons. A devoted sports fan, Jerry especially loved the Tampa Bay Lightning, Miami Dolphins, and was a passionate, lifelong supporter—and self-proclaimed number one fan—of the Atlanta Braves. Jerry was also instrumental in creating the annual Fourth of July golf cart parade in his North Carolina community of Dogwood Lakes, designing and building imaginative floats that brought smiles to neighbors and friends.

Above all, Jerry will be remembered for his humor and his ability to connect with anyone. He never met a stranger and delighted in sharing jokes wherever he went. Even in his final days, he was still making people laugh with his favorite line: “Hey, I got gas today for $2.30.” When someone would ask, “Where?” Jerry would grin and reply, “Taco Bell.”

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Sandra; his son Lee (Kathy) and grandson Michael (Katie); his daughter Kimberly (James) and grandsons Ben (Lena) and Clay (Maggie); and his great-grandson, Henry. Four brothers, Bob, Richard, Jim & Tony, and their spouses.

A burial service will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery, Mims, Florida, on July 13, 2026.

Jerry’s life was one of energy, humor, and generosity. He built not only homes and communities, but also lasting memories and smiles that will live on in all who knew him.