Wilson Freeman "Bill" Jerome, 84, of Fort Madison, Iowa passed away August 6, 2013.

He was born June 18, 1929 in Centerville, Iowa, to the late Leslie and True (Freeman) Jerome. Bill graduated in 1947 from the Centerville High School. In 1951, he graduated from Parsons College, Fairfield, Iowa where he had an outstanding athletic career. He taught in the Centerville Community Schools for 6 years before moving to Fort Madison. He taught in the Fort Madison School system for over 30 years, retiring in 1989. Bill was a respected teacher and a beloved coach to many. He touched the lives of Simon, Jon, George and countless other young men during his lifetime. His hobbies were his teaching and coaching and a little singing. In later years, he enjoyed golfing, fishing, making bird houses, and raising beautiful tomatoes. He was a member of the Elks Lodge and was of the Baptist Faith.

He is survived by his wife, Doloros,"Dodie" of 62 years, son, Jerry "JJ" (Dana) Jerome, of Keokuk, Iowa; two daughters, Becky (Mike) Riggs, of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Debbie (Guy) Bittner, of Tucson, Arizona; one sister: Betty Sanders, one brother, Lloyd (Barbara) Jerome, six grandchildren: Sara Jayne Kraus, Max Kraus, Chase Bittner, Elle Bittner, Sadie Hanner and Bianca Meyer; four great grandchildren: Gavin, Abbott, Tice and Berkley; nieces, nephews and many friends.

The family would like to thank the West Point Care Center for their loving care and support of Bill. Also thank you to Barr Memorial Chapel for all the arrangements.

Per his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday, September 14, 2013 at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison, Iowa. His family is inviting friends to join them for a reception following the memorial service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for a bronze sculpture at Old Settlers Park. Contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel, Fort Madison, Iowa.