Jerry Melvin Deerwester passed away on January 23, 2026.
Born March 9, 1935, Jerry will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and coach, whose steady presence and generous heart touched countless lives.
Jerry spent his professional career at NASA’s Ames Research Center at Moffett Field, making significant contributions to foundational space research that helped shape human understanding of interplanetary missions and Earth observation systems.
As a research engineer and author on multiple NASA technical reports, Jerry helped develop analytical frameworks that guided future missions to other planets. His work included pivotal studies on interplanetary trajectories and mission design — such as analyses of Jupiter swing by missions and reference systems for manned missions to Mars and Venus — underlining his deep expertise in orbital mechanics and spaceflight dynamics. His technical publications from the Ames Research archives remain a resource for aerospace scientists and mission planners alike.
In recognition of his professional excellence, Jerry was honored with the NASA Exceptional Service Medal in 1992 — an award reflecting exceptional contributions to the success of NASA programs and missions. This honor is bestowed on individuals whose innovative work and unwavering commitment have had a profound impact on NASA’s mission and achievements.
For more than 30 years, Jerry dedicated himself to coaching Sunnyvale Pop Warner football, mentoring generations of young athletes. He taught discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, leaving a lasting impact on players and families throughout the community.
Above all, Jerry cherished his family. He is survived by his sister, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and neice who brought him immense joy and pride. He now reunites with his beloved wife, Patricia.
Jerry’s legacy lives on through the lives he shaped, the family he loved deeply, and the community he served wholeheartedly. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
