Gerald Oliver Beers, 86, longtime Oak Harbor resident, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, July 28, 2009.

He was born in Yakima in 1923 to C. Elzie Beers and Lena (Owens) Beers. After high school, he trained as a Navy and civilian pilot and served in the U.S. Army. While bound for Europe on the USS McAndrews, an aircraft carrier collided with his ship. Many soldiers were lost but after many hours in the water, Jerry was miraculously rescued.

Following his honorable discharge, Jerry lived in the Yakima and Seattle areas. He was successfully employed in auto sales and dealership/business management. Jerry was a past member of the Elks, VFW, Disabled American Veterans and American Legion. He was a member of the Oak Harbor Church of the Nazarene.

Jerry is survived by two sons, Steven Mong (Lori) of Oak Harbor and Scott Beers of California; one daughter, Theresa Withrow (Randy) of Phoenix; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; one sister, Rosalie Nunn of Oak Harbor; one brother, Leo Beers (Cathy) of Sequim; also, numerous nieces and nephews. Jerry was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Sheridan Beers, and by a son, Michael Beers.

Jerry became a Christian late in life and knew the power of overcoming grace. He loved to tell family members what he loved about them, and he did it with sincerity and panache. He told them, too, that he was eager to see Jesus.

Gifts are suggested to The Salvation Army. Guest register is at www.whidbeymemorial.com. Arrangements by Whidbey Memorial Funeral and Cremation Service, Inc.