Jerry “Cal” Coolidge, age 68, of Derby peacefully entered into eternal rest at his home on Tuesday, August 11, 2026.
He was born in Derby on January 17, 1958, the son of the late Alva E. and Florence (Bentley) Coolidge. In his youth, he worked for many years in IT for SNET as well as a Manager for Toys’R’Us in Milford. His passion then was entertaining his family and friends as well as local youth groups with his special magic act, which at the time included our family pets, a rabbit and then two doves that he later acquired for his act. Many of us thought that this was his calling, to make people smile.
He continued his service to others as a proud member of the Derby Elks Lodge #571, where he served as elected Past Exalted Ruler from 2011-2014. He is remembered “as a person who knew how to have a good time, was kind to others, and practiced the virtues of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love, and Fidelity throughout his life”.
“He was instrumental in bringing forth many charitable programs to the Elks”, according to Maria Blackwell, current Elks Exalted Ruler. He enjoyed travelling out west to visit 11 Elks lodges in 3 states as well as here in CT. He was honored to serve his community and helped many including donating a new backstop to our local Derby Little League, and supporting our local youth at the annual Elks Basketball Shoot-out.
Although saddened by his loss, his vast group of friends, especially Markanthony, Paul & Becky, Jim, Rick, Daryl, and Anita, and so many more, who created memories of a lifetime.
Their many trips to the Big East tournaments in NYC and especially times shared at the Blarney Stone (a watering hole for the valley) where, when Jerry walked in, all you could hear was “Cal is in the house!” Jerry was a huge fan of St. John’s Red Storm, “Anybody but a Hoya”, Notre Dame Fighting Irish as well as the NY Mets. WHOO HOO. He loved to travel, collect stamps and was so looking forward to celebrating his 50th year class reunion at the Twisted Vine. He supported our troops by wearing “RED” on Fridays, to “Remember Everyone Deployed.
Jerry is survived by his siblings, Janice Duval of Oxford, CT, Stanley Girard, Pamela Queen (Raymond) of Derby, CT, and Karen Jalowiec of Tucson, AZ, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Kevin Girard. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Iris and his care team for their compassion, kindness and devoted care they provided. Their support brought comfort and peace during a difficult time and their kindness will always be remembered.
Friends are invited to greet the family on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 4PM to 7 PM at Edward F. Adzima Funeral Home, 253 Elizabeth St. Derby. On Saturday his funeral service will begin in the funeral home at 10 AM. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery, Ansonia. Online condolences can be offered at www.adzimafh.com.