Jerry Fiala

It is with deep sadness and profound respect that we share the passing of Mayor Jerry (Jerome) Fiala, a lifelong resident of Kent, Ohio, who dedicated more than three decades of his life to public service and the community he so deeply loved. Jerry’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of Kent, where he was known not only as a devoted Mayor and Councilman but as a neighbor, a friend, and a humble servant of the people.

Jerry often described himself as being from the “School of Hard Knocks” and “just a townie.” Despite his modesty, his impact was extraordinary. His journey of service began in 1961 as an Eagle Scout with Troop 260, and his commitment to serving others never wavered. Over the years, Jerry worked tirelessly in both his professional and public life. He was employed at Tree City Mold for 43 years as a machinist and programmer, while also serving the Kent community in countless ways.

Jerry’s public service spanned more than 30 years, including roles as Ward I Councilperson (1985–1999), Councilman at Large, and ultimately as Mayor and President of Council, serving an impressive 16 years. He made history as Kent’s 46th and 48th Mayor. His leadership touched nearly every corner of the community—through his work with the Kent Chamber of Commerce, Portage County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Portage County Community Correction Board, Hometown Bank Foundation, Kent Visiting Nurses, and the Portage and Summit County Mayor’s Association, to name just a few.

Jerry was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus #1411, the Kent Lions Club (where he served as King Lion in 2011 and 2020), and the Crooked River Eagle Board of Review. He received the Melvin E. Jones Fellowship in 2016 and the Knights of the Blind Award in 2019, honors that reflected his unwavering commitment to service.

Despite his many accomplishments, Jerry was always humble. He insisted that “it was a team effort” and that “everybody wins.” He lived by the principle, “Whatever I make as a Mayor will go back to the community.” True to his word, Jerry gave back to the community in countless quiet ways—whether through donations, acts of kindness, meals provided, or anonymous gestures of support to families in need.

Jerry’s love for Kent was rivaled only by his love for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Some of his proudest moments were watching his grandsons Drew and Noah achieve their Eagle Scout ranks, carrying on the tradition he began as a young man. He spoke so fondly of his grandchildren. Together with his beloved wife, Sue, Jerry modeled a life of partnership, generosity, and service.

Even during illness, Jerry remained a pillar of strength, often coming to City Hall or community events despite personal challenges. He found joy in simple moments, like visiting the Kent Police Department with his dog Jewel, supporting local officers and employees, or attending the Citizens’ Police Academy to connect with his neighbors.

Jerry’s leadership was marked by humility, compassion, and a contagious sense of hometown pride. He had the unique ability to make everyone feel like family, and he always placed the needs of his community before his own. His colleagues described him as the most effective mayor they had ever worked with, and the community knew him as their strongest advocate and greatest supporter.

Above all, Jerry Fiala’s life was a testament to love—love for his family, his city, and his fellow man. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched, the city he shaped, and the spirit of service he inspired in all of us.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Joseph and Emily Fiala, and his brother, Joseph Fiala.

Mayor Jerry Fiala is survived by his beloved wife, Carol Sue; his children, Valerie (Steven) Baranowski and C. Thomas (Jennifer Toth) Fiala; his grandchildren, Casey Greenwald, Andrew Greenwald, Noah Greenwald, Jacob Fiala, Reagan Toth, Simon Toth, Daniel Baranowski, Brian Baranowski, Baylee Baranowski; his sisters, Mana Nose and Dorothy (George) Klem and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Sunday, October 5, 2025 from 1:00-5:00PM at Bissler and Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 6, 2025 at 10:00AM at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 313 N. Depeyster St. Kent, OH 44240 with the Rev. Fr. William Wainio and the Rev. Fr. Richard Pentello as Celebrants. Interment will follow at Standing Rock Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jerry’s honor to Kent Police Department, Kent Lion's Club, Kent Social Services, or any other local organizations and causes he faithfully supported.

Services in the care of Bissler and Sons Funeral Home, 628 W. Main St. Kent, OH 44240.