Rev. Jerome ‘Jerry’ Kaywell, Longtime Sacred Heart Pastor in Punta Gorda, Dies at 72

Feb. 23, 2026 — Punta Gorda, Fla. Rev. Jerome “Jerry” Kaywell, a 72-year-old priest of the Diocese of Venice and pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, died peacefully in his sleep, according to a parish announcement. The diocese described his passing as unexpected.

Kaywell, born in 1953 in West Palm Beach, was ordained on Oct. 25, 1991, at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, Florida, as detailed in the diocese’s obituary. He had served Sacred Heart Parish since 2004, initially as administrator and as pastor since 2008.

Career Highlights

Prior assignments included parochial vicar at St. Andrew Parish in Cape Coral from 1991 to 1998 and at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naples from 1999 to 2004. He also served on the Diocesan Presbyteral Council from 1994 to 2002 and as chaplain for the Sacred Heart Conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Kaywell led the parish through major recoveries following Hurricane Charley in 2004, which destroyed the church, with a new church dedicated in 2008 by Bishop Frank J. Dewane. In 2022, Hurricane Ian damaged the parish center and rectory, requiring nearly two years of repairs.

Before entering the priesthood, Kaywell was an award-winning professional musician, composer and producer for television and film, earning a Grammy Award.

Community Response

The Sacred Heart announcement stated:

It is with sadness that we announce that Father Jerry Kaywell died peacefully in his sleep last night. As he often said, the veil is very thin between heaven and earth. Father Jerry has now joined the God he loved with his whole being and all the saints he cherished.

The diocese homepage features a banner: “Father Jerome Kaywell May he rest in eternal peace 1953-2026.”

A Diocese Facebook post mirrored the obituary and drew tributes praising his homilies, music and pastoral care. Parishioners recalled his inspiring Masses, personal visits and musical talents from his pre-priesthood career.

Details on funeral services were not yet available, with the parish promising updates. The diocese requested prayers for the repose of his soul and consolation for his family.