Jerome Pecko

Jerome Pecko, of Barberton, Ohio passed away on Saturday, June 7, 2025. He was 79.
Born and raised in Akron, Ohio he was the son of the late Joseph and Ann Pecko.
He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Rebecca (Jones) Pecko; siblings Joe (Kathryn) Pecko and Maureen (Mike Esselburn) Prebynski; and many nieces & nephews. In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his sisters Joanne Skadra and Susan Ross; and brothers-in-law Bernie Prebynski and James Ross.
A 1964 graduate and Distinguished Alumni of Archbishop Hoban High School, Jerry went on to the University of Akron where he participated in ROTC and graduated with a bachelor's degree in education. Jerry served two years with the Army and was in Vietnam when he was literally whisked out of a rice paddy in August of 1971 to enable him to begin his teaching career with the Akron Public Schools. From that day forward, he was dedicated to educating and administering the education of children, kindergarten through grade 12. He was committed to creating a lifelong love of learning in every student and helping them to reach their full potential. He worked with staff, parents and the community to help achieve his vision.
Throughout the course of this career, Jerry went on to earn in Master's in education and his Doctorate from the University of Akron, where he was a College of Education Distinguished Alumni. Jerry never tired of learning new and innovative methods of education and he served as a mentor to a whole generation of teachers and administrators.
After spending 23 years with APS as a teacher, principal, and Central Office Administrator, Jerry first spent nine years as the Superintendent of Barberton City Schools, where he was instrumental in building the new high school and transforming the educational experience for students and teachers. He spent four years leading the Springfield Local District and three years with Toledo City School District. Everywhere Jerry went, he gave his heart and soul to create an environment that would help all students learn and grow. His impact on each community is still present today.
Jerry received countless awards and recognitions for his commitment to students, parents and the community at large. Even after his retirement in 2013, Jerry continued in his commitment to education and the local community, focusing on early childhood education.
In his free time, Jerry enjoyed golf and spending time at Lake Erie and on the Ocean in Georgia with his wife, friends and family. He truly felt at home on the water and loved sharing his passion with others.
Special thanks to Southern Care Hospice for their compassionate care and commitment to Jerry during his final days, and to the staff at the Gables of Green for caring for Jerry during his stay. Also thank you to Katie Anthony and staff of Anthony Funeral Homes for their support and guidance.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 17 from 10AM to 12Noon at the Barberton High School Theater, 555 Barber Road in Barberton, where a service will be held at 12Noon. Parking is available on the west side of the building. Interment at Ohio Western Reserve Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pecko Scholarship at The University of Akron. Donate online at www.uakron.edu/giveUA by selecting "A different designation" and entering "Pecko Scholarship," or mail checks to: The University of Akron, Dept. of Development, Akron, OH 44325-2603 (memo: Pecko Scholarship).