CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Feb. 4, 2026 – The Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources honors the life and legacy of Geraldine “Jerre” Ophelia Gowdy, who passed away Jan. 27, 2026, at the age of 101, and recognizes the enduring contributions of the Gowdy family to Curt Gowdy State Park.

Jerre Gowdy, the late broadcaster and Wyoming native Curt Gowdy's wife, was a devoted philanthropist whose vision, generosity, and commitment helped shape Curt Gowdy State Park into a welcoming and inspiring place for visitors of all ages. For more than five decades, the Gowdy family has worked in close partnership with Wyoming State Parks, the Wyoming Legislature, and private partners to support meaningful park enhancements that reflect Curt Gowdy’s deep love for Wyoming and the outdoors.

Among the family’s most significant contributions are the park’s visitor center, iconic entry archway, and the creation of Little House on the Park, a one-of-a-kind children’s space designed to inspire kindness, curiosity, and a lifelong connection to nature. Little House opened in 2023 and was dedicated in 2024 as a family legacy honoring Curt and Jerre Gowdy.

In 2013, Jerre Gowdy and her daughter, Cheryl Gowdy, established the Curt Gowdy State Park Family Fund to ensure continued stewardship and support of the park for future generations.

“The Gowdy family’s impact on Curt Gowdy State Park is profound and lasting,” said Nick Neylon, deputy director of Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resources. “Jerre’s life of service and the family’s continued commitment embody the spirit of generosity, community, and outdoor appreciation that Wyoming State Parks strives to foster statewide.”

Wyoming State Parks extends its condolences to the Gowdy family and expresses deep gratitude for their extraordinary partnership and dedication to preserving one of Wyoming’s beloved state parks.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Curt Gowdy State Park Family Fund through the Wyoming Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, at 1472 N. 5th St., Suite 201, Laramie, WY 82072.

Figure 1: Geraldine “Jerre” Ophelia Gowdy of Boston and Palm Beach, Fla., passes at 101, January 27, 2026.

Figure 2: Curt Gowdy State Park's visitor center and entry archway were made possible through the support of the Gowdy family and continue to welcome visitors to the park.

Figure 3: Little House on the Park opened in 2023 and was dedicated in 2024 in honor of Curt and Jerre Gowdy.

Figure 4: Jerre Gowdy (left) and Cheryl Gowdy (right) stand at the center of the ribbon cutting during the opening of Little House on the Park, joined by family members, community leaders, and partners.

Contact: Nick Neylon, (307) 431-4866; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.