Pictured (left to right), Host Cary Deeter, Norma Tabatt, and Jerry Tabatt. December, 2016.
On September 29, 2025, Bay County said goodbye to one of its most recognizable voices and dearest friends. Jerome “Jerry” Tabatt, retired Chief Meteorologist for WMBB News 13 and longtime supporter of Gulf Coast State College’s Center for Student Media, passed away peacefully at the age of 76.
For those who had the privilege of working alongside him, Jerry was more than a broadcast professional, he was a mentor, a storyteller, and a steadfast advocate for both his community and the students who were learning to tell its stories.
A Familiar Voice Returns to Campus
Jerry first joined the Center for Student Media in December 2016 as a guest on Military Hour with host Cary Deeter. What began as a single appearance soon grew into a lasting connection. Even after the cameras stopped rolling, Jerry made sure to stay involved, keeping in touch with students, faculty, and the creative energy that fueled the program.
Jerry, a good friend, military Brother and staunch veteran supporter. You will be missed by many!
Following the passing of his beloved wife, Norma, Jerry returned to the Center with renewed purpose. Channeling his years of broadcast experience and lifelong commitment to service, he began hosting Our Military Community, a half-hour program dedicated to honoring veterans and active-duty servicemembers across the Panhandle. Through the show, Jerry shared powerful local stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience, giving voice to the men and women whose lives embodied the same sense of duty that had defined his own.
A Lasting Partnership with Digital Media
Jerry’s collaboration with Gulf Coast’s Digital Media program reflected his deep belief in the importance of mentorship and media that matters. Whether behind the microphone or in conversation with students, he was eager to share insight from his nearly 30-year career as a meteorologist at WMBB. His professionalism, warmth, and curiosity set an example for young broadcasters learning the craft of communication.
A Legacy That Endures
Jerry’s passing leaves behind a legacy built on service, first to his country as a meteorologist with the United States Air Force, and later to his community through decades of broadcast journalism and volunteerism. But perhaps his most lasting contribution was his ability to bring people together through stories that mattered, stories that reminded us of our shared humanity.
To the students and faculty of Gulf Coast State College, Jerry Tabatt will be remembered not only for his remarkable career, but for his generosity, humor, and unwavering support of those following in his footsteps. His voice, both calm and kind, remains part of the Center’s history, and his impact, much like his forecast, will continue to guide us for years to come.
It was an honor to work alongside Jerry. He was always very kind and patient with the students. HE provided us the opportunity to run a show that allowed students to gone their live production skills each week. I worked as the primary Technical Director on the show. I hope to carry those skills with me in life and in my future career, as well as pass them down to new students so that his legacy can live on. Thank you Jerry, for everything.
As a show host, Jerry was easy to work with. He didn’t ask for a lot and always seemed to appreciate the work that we did. You could tell he really cared about veterans and the local military community, and his conversations would usually run past the camera turning off. He was that dedicated to the guests and their stories. He truly hoped the show would be a beneficial resource to those within that community.
Daniela "Danie" Oestreich
Digital Media Instructor
As a graduate student at the University of Florida and current full time instructor in the Digital Media Program, Danie often has her nose buried in a book. She is always looking for opportunities to practice her writing by covering student projects, and promoting collegiate collaboration.
