Jerry Lee Denstorff

Jerry Lee Denstorff, born December 25, 1936, in Danville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2025, at the age of 88.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Pauline Denstorff, and his brother, Herman. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan, with whom he shared 64 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. He is also survived by his two sons: Russ and his wife Susan, and Rick and his wife Lisa. Jerry was a proud grandfather to four grandchildren: Sydney, Ty, Keaton, and Clay, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Jerry spent his early years in Rockport, Indiana, growing up on his family’s farm. A gifted athlete, he began his collegiate studies at Louisiana State University, where he played football, and completed his education at the University of Evansville, where he excelled on the field as an all-conference football player.

His passion for the game led to a lifelong career in coaching. Jerry began coaching at Mitchell High School, then moved on to become an assistant coach at Morehead State. He later took the head coaching position at Bloomsburg State College. Despite his success at the collegiate level, Jerry and Joan chose to return to their roots, moving back to the farm in Rockport to raise their two sons. There, Jerry served as the head football coach at South Spencer High School for over two decades, impacting the lives of countless student-athletes with his mentorship and leadership.

In recognition of his achievements and lasting influence on the game, Jerry was honored with induction into the Indiana Football Hall of Fame—a tribute that reflected his deep commitment to the sport and to the generations of young players he guided.

After retiring from coaching, Jerry and Joan moved to Florida, where they embraced their shared love of golf—first at Indian Lake Estates and later at Sun ‘n Lake in Sebring. There, they made many cherished friendships and enjoyed the slower pace of retired life.

A celebration of life is being planned in Indiana for later this summer.

Gifts in Jerry’s memory can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association to help in the fight against dementia.

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
Avon Park, Florida
Online condolences may be left at
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com