Jerry Hargis
Jerry Hargis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer on October 23, 2024.
Born on May 27, 1957, in Santa Barbara, California, to Dan and Wanda Hargis, Jerry brought light and joy to those who knew him. From a young age, Jerry developed a deep love for aviation, which would become his lifelong passion. He graduated from Dos Pueblos High School, where he was an active member of the marching band and water polo team and had the honor of marching in the Washington, D.C. Cherry Blossom Parade. Jerry pursued his love of flying at San Jose State University, graduating in 1980 with a degree in Aviation. Jerry began his career as a pilot flying various aircraft, including the 727, 737, DC-3, and DC-6, across Alaska, Hawaii, and the western United States. In 1987, he joined America West Airlines and settled in Chandler, Arizona, where he would remain for the next 34 years.
He built an impressive career, flying the 737 and Airbus 320, and retired as a Captain on the 777 in May of 2022.
In 1996, Jerry met the love of his life, Evelyn. They married in 1997, and he gained three children—David, Chris, and Diana—who he cherished as his own. Together, Jerry and Evelyn welcomed their son Garrett in 1998, completing their family. Jerry adored his family and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. A passionate aviation enthusiast and avid sports fan, Jerry attended the 2001 Diamondbacks World Series, the 2021 Suns Championship, and Super Bowl XLIII, all alongside his son Garrett.
Known for his talent at the grill, Jerry loved to barbecue and bring friends and family together over good food and laughter. He was an active member of his community, coaching peewee football and sharing his love for the sport with young athletes. In 2022, Jerry and Evelyn retired to Payson, Arizona, where they embraced a quieter life in the beauty of the forest. Despite his diagnosis of stage 4 cancer in 2023, Jerry continued to live his life fully and fought bravely until the end.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn; his brother, Jeff; his children; Garrett, David, Chris, and Diana; his niece, Lynette; and his grandchildren, Keythin,’Keyairra, Keylei, Kyler, Keyndal, and Maya. Jerry is reunited with his parents, Dan and Wanda, and his brother, Joel.
Jerry will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, adventure, and love for life will forever remain in our hearts.