Jeremiah F. Elrod, age 48, a resident of Northbrook, IL, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026.  He was born May 3, 1977 in Indianapolis, IN. He is survived by his children Sophia, Jack, and Charlie, his partner Melissa Manrique and her children, Ernesto, Tomas, and Leo, his parents Bob & Bev Elrod, his brothers Matt (Jennifer), Ben (Melissa), and Jon (Laura), and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry was a graduate of DePauw University where he joined the Delta Chi fraternity.  He earned a master's degree in International Commerce and Policy at George Mason University.  He worked in banking as a compliance and risk management officer.

Family, friends, and coworkers adored Jerry for his big heart and his infectious child-like enthusiasm for life.  He was a gentle giant who loved movies, knew the lyrics to every song, and delighted in cooking and eating.  Jerry loved exploring the great outdoors and spending time on Lake Michigan.

More than anything, Jerry reveled in being a dad.  He wrapped his children in love, understanding, patience, and sage advice.  His home was filled with playfulness, laughter, and smiles.

For more than two years, Jerry fought through the pain of stage IV lung cancer every day just to have a few more hours with the love of his life, Melissa, and their blended family.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 7th at 2:00 p.m. at The Village Presbyterian Church, 1300 Shermer Road, Northbrook, IL.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made in Jerry's name to EGFR Resisters or the Lung Cancer Research Foundation .