Jerry Jewett III, 77, of Lake City passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 29, 2022. He was born in Miami, FL on January 20, 1945. His first few years were spent in New Jersey until his parents moved back to South Florida. After high school graduation in 1963, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp, where he served in a combat role in the Vietnam War. Although he was honorably discharged from the Marine Corp in 1967, he remained a lifelong, loyal Marine. He worked in law enforcement for most of his adult life, starting his career with the Miami Police Department in 1968 and retiring in 2011, reaching the rank of Captain, with the Columbia County Sheriff's Office. He was known statewide for the implementation of the Zero Drug Tolerance program in Columbia County in the late 1980's and was affectionately known as "The Terrorizer" amongst the local drug dealer population. He implemented and led the first Columbia County Drug Task Force, in which his subordinates were known as "Jerry's Kids." He went on to lead various law enforcement functions in the investigative, patrol, and courthouse security divisions. In his spare time, he loved being with his family. He enjoyed backpacking with his son and friends and travelling the world. He also enjoyed reading and was adamant that he could be a Jeopardy champion. He became an avid University of Alabama fan when his granddaughter joined their golf team, attending many tournaments. He also had a passion for attempting to eliminate the squirrel population around his home. The surviving squirrels are currently holding a celebration over his passing. One of his favorite places was BHD Beach in North Carolina. And later in life, to the surprise of many, he enjoyed planting and tending to flowers in his yard for his wife.

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Carol Jean Jewett; son, John H Jewett IV (Paula) of Lake City, FL, daughters, Lori Edwards (Bill) of Jay, FL and, Dawn Jewett Walko (Mike) of Chiefland, FL. Brother-in-law, Danny Mehl of Lake City, FL, Eight grandchildren, Jessica (Nate), Krista, Sarah, Alex, Kyle, Gracie, Kathryn, and Ella. Siblings Chuck, Edward, and Mark. Many extended family members and friends. Pre-deceased by his father, John Jewett, Jr., mother, Marie Hinchcliffe, brother, Jeffrey, father-in-law, Daniel J. Mehl and mother-in-law, Esther Mehl.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to CARC of Lake City, 512 SW Sisters Welcome Road, Lake City, FL 32025, in Jerry Jewett's name.