Jerry Louis Slama

Jerry Louis Slama, 89, of Franklin, died on June 25, 2026. Born on September 23, 1936, in Flushing, New York, Jerry was the only child of Louis and Josephine (Hutak) Slama. Raised in Bayside, New York, he was active in Boy Scouts and remained proud of his Czech heritage throughout his life, especially through sharing the family tradition of baking hoska, the braided Christmas bread, with his children and grandchildren.

He graduated from Bayside High School in 1954 and earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from The Ohio State University in 1959, where he also participated in ROTC and rose to the rank of First Lieutenant in the Artillery. Later that year, he married Elaine Sherwood, and together they raised three children. He earned his MBA from Xavier University in 1976.

Jerry spent most of his career at Armco Steel, where he worked on major engineering projects, including the development of the company’s electro-galvanizing line. After leaving Armco, he spent several years as a consultant. He held several patents, embraced new technology early, and was known as a gifted engineer and skilled handyman.

Jerry was active in his community, serving as president of Doty House and the Monroe Optimist Club. He was also a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church in Middletown, where he volunteered with youth programs including Appalachia Service Project and TREK.

He will be remembered as a loving father and grandfather, an adventurous spirit, and a “big kid” at heart. He enjoyed camping trips with his grandchildren, hosting exchange students from Japan, flying single prop planes, and making family memories at Disney World and Kings Island.

Jerry is survived by his children, Diana Fox (Tom) and Craig Slama (Denise); his grandchildren, Abbey Fox, James Fox and Anna McNeely Fox (Lu), and many friends. He was preceded in death by his son, Glenn Slama; his ex-wife, Elaine Slama; and his parents, Louis and Josephine Slama.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hope House in Middletown, Ohio.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, 120 South Broad Street, Middletown, Ohio 45044. Calling hours will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 10:30 a.m. A reception will follow.