Retired Air Force Colonel Jerome “Jerry” Thies, 78, of Universal City, Tx. passed away peacefully on March 11, 2019 after a long illness. Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Mickey. During Jerry’s illness, there was time for him to share precious memories and quite a few laughs with both of his sons. Chris, Jerry’s oldest son, was able to thank him for an amazing childhood and Matt, Jerry’s youngest son, was able to bring his grandchildren, Ella and DJ, around to celebrate his life and legacy. His presence will be missed by his family, friends and classmates.
Jerry spent his life in the service of his country in both times of war and of peace. Jerry began his career in the Air Force when he attended the U.S. Air Force Academy. While he was there, Jerry was recruited to play quarterback for the football team. Jerry excelled at the academy and graduated in 1963 at a ceremony that included President John F. Kennedy as the commencement speaker. Beyond the Academy Jerry’s tours took him to South Vietnam where he flew A-1 Skyraider’s, back to the Academy where he was a math professor, Reese AFB where he was a pilot instructor, Randolph AFB where he was the Base Commander and Sheppard AFB where he was a Wing Commander. An outstanding pilot and dedicated command officer, Jerry received the Bronze Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and Legion of Merit among numerous others awards for his service.
Jerry was born in Dayton, Ohio to Jerome and Virginia Thies and met his beautiful wife, Yvonne “Mickey,” while attending Pilot Instructor Training at Williams AFB. Ironically they met at the wedding of Jerry’s best friend, Jim Alburn (USAFA ’63), and Mickey’s sister, Gail Alburn. Jerry was a loving and devoted husband and father. Together they raised two boys, Christopher of Philadelphia, PA and Matthew of Universal City, Tx. Chris remembers, “He was always a fantastic father, in fact he was not just a father he was my friend. Dad and I became even closer friends during his last few years and I will miss his daily messages and weather updates. I will miss his jokes and his quick wit. He was the reason Texas was always home. Dad’s smile and presence was larger than life and his laugh and voice were always felt deep in the heart. He was an American hero but most of all he was my hero.” Jerry will also be missed by his third child affectionately known as Beanbag. Beanbag is a rescue from the local animal shelter and he became Jerry’s wingman and sidekick. Beanbag was originally brought home by Mickey however he became Dad’s dog and best friend.
Jerry’s life will be celebrated on July 12, 2019 at the U.S. Air Force Academy. The service will be officiated by Deacon Bob Waller. Memorial contributions in Jerry’s memory may be made to the U.S. Air Force Academy Endowment 3116 Academy Drive, Suite 200, USAF Academy, CO 80840.
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