I don't know anyone who ever met Jerry Traylor who was not inspired and enriched in some way from that encounter. I had the privilege of hearing his presentations at RYLA for many years. I know he had a positive impact on countless young lives. Most teens see themselves as seriously flawed in one way or another. Seeing and hearing Jerry took away all their excuses for letting those flaws get in the way of dreaming large and achieving much!
Jerry was diagnosed with cancer about a year ago and fought that last battle valiently, but was peaceful and ready to move on to his final reward when he passed from this life in hospice care on June 10, 2018. I pulled my copy of his book, LIVE CAREFULLY off the shelf after hearing of his death. Back in my RYLA days, every participant took a copy of this book home with them. I plan to slowly re-read mine and remember my friend.
A memorial service for Jerry will be held Saturday, July 14, 2018 (his 64th birthday) at Shepherd of the Hills Church, 16150 E. El Lago Blvd., Fountain Hills, Arizona. The best way to honor Jerry will be to remember "the importance of caring in a life of significance."