Statement on the Death of Gerald Eby

Citizens for Carlisle Schools is deeply saddened by the passing of our friend, colleague, and fellow school board candidate Gerald Eby.  We offer our most sincere condolences to Martha, his beloved wife of 59 years, and their children, Steven and Heather, and hold his entire extended family in our hearts and prayers. Jerry was a gentle giant on the Carlisle Area School Board, and while his presence will be missed, we know his legacy and impact on generations of students will proudly live on.

Jerry was the very definition of what makes us Herd Strong.  He was himself a graduate of Carlisle High School, proudly served our country as a captain in the Army Corps of Engineers, and a long-time supporter of the school district.  As an engineer and local businessman, Jerry championed technology in the classroom, led initiatives to achieve greater energy efficiencies in the district’s buildings, and helped secure grants to install the district’s solar fields. 

Thanks to Jerry’s steadfast leadership, Carlisle is one of only a few districts statewide to have a fully integrated career and technology education (CTE) program. This has enabled thousands of Carlisle students to graduate with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the workplace.

During his 36 years on the school board, Jerry earned the reputation of being a responsible watchdog of the district’s finances and an advocate for long-term facilities and financial planning. This helped Carlisle weather tough financial times and still have the resources to attract and retain high-quality teachers while being able to offer education in safe and up-to-date buildings.  Generations of students have been educated in classrooms and buildings Jerry helped build and maintain.

Jerry was also a strong believer in life-long learning.  He was Vice President of the Employment Skills Center Board and actively participated in their Buck-a-Book program to encourage elementary student reading and writing in support of adult literacy.

Jerry’s joyful presence, experienced perspective, and nonpartisan commitment to our students, teachers, and families will be deeply missed.  We are forever grateful for his lifetime of friendship, leadership, and dedication to the Carlisle community.   We at Citizens for Carlisle Schools pledge to carrying on Jerry’s legacy of service to our shared community and follow his example of principled leadership.

Rest in Peace, Jerry.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, September 10, at 2:00 PM in the Hilltop Community Church, 202 W. Butler St, Mt. Holly Springs, PA 17065.  A visitation will be held one hour prior to services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hilltop Community Church, 202 W. Butler Street, Mt. Holly Springs, PA 17065, or Employment Skills Center, 29 S. Hanover Street, Carlisle, PA 17013. Visit www.hollingerfuneralhome.com to offer condolences to the family.