John Thomas “Tom” Gerber, 89, of Clay City, passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at Ketcham Memorial Center in Odon, IN. He was born in Clay County on June 5, 1931, the son of J.R. “Bud” Gerber and Juanita (Weatherwax) Gerber.
Tom was a 1949 graduate of Clay City High School and Indiana State University, with a degree in teaching Mathematics, Physical Education and Coaching. He served his country in the U.S. Army. On June 9, 1951 he married the love of his life, Shirley (Worth) Gerber and together they started their wonderful life together. Tom loved coaching basketball and was proud that some of his players from the past still called him, “Coach”. He coached at Patricksburg, Edgewood, Clay City High Schools and taught at those schools along with Woodrow Wilson Jr. High School. He loved mentoring the many students he taught and coach for many years. He was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Clay City where he was a church superintendent, deacon and Sunday school teacher. Tom enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s many activities including watching his great-granddaughter show her first steer in 4-H. He loved to spend time with his family and friends and go on vacations at Lake of the Ozarks and go water skiing. Tom and Shirley spent the winter months shrimping in Florida. He enjoyed farming and raising cattle with his family. Tom was a member of the American Legion Post #0225 in Clay City and Linton Elks Lodge #866, ISU Alumni and Farm Bureau. Past member of Polled Herford Association, ISTA and Indiana Basketball Coaches Association.
Tom was preceded in death by his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Shirley Gerber; his parents, Bud and Juanita Gerber; daughter-in-law, Cynthia Ann Gerber; and a granddaughter, Tobi Lynn Gerber.
Survivors include sons, Jeff Gerber and wife, Elena, Joe Gerber; a daughter, Jill Wier and her husband Gary; grandchildren, Alex Gerber and wife, Alicia, Ashlee Gerber, Cody Gerber and wife, Kelsie, Cameron Collins and husband, Adam, Chelsee Rash and husband, Jordan and Mitch Wier; and great-grandchildren, Delaney Gerber, Liam Gerber, Luke Gerber, Lane Gerber, Gabby Gerber, Greyson Gerber, Addi Collins, Avery Collins, Abe Collins, Collyn Rash, Jozee Rash and Jaxon Rash.
Private graveside services are scheduled. Burial will be in Sink Cemetery. The family will be planning a Celebration of Life service at a later date. The family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to: New Hope Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 11460 S. State Rd. 59, Clay City, IN 47841. Arrangements are under the direction of Schoppenhorst Funeral Home, 301 E. 8th Street. To light a candle in his memory, visit: www.schoppenhorstfuneralhome.com.