"Salute and Respect": SA Air Force Community Mourns Major General Jerry Coetzee as Tributes Pour In
- The Coetzee family announced the passing of Major General Jerry Coetzee of the South African Air Force on 18 August 2026
- Coetzee served at 35 Squadron and was known for the deep bonds he formed with fellow servicemen throughout his career
- Fellow airmen and those who knew him personally paid tribute online, remembering him as a gentleman and a leader
PAY ATTENTION: Mark Briefly News as a preferred source, and our content will appear higher in your Google feed!
Source: Facebook
The family of Major General Jerry Coetzee confirmed his death in a post shared on 18 August 2026 by LMB – AFB Ysterplaat via Facebook user Nick Havenga. He passed away in the early hours of that morning.
In a statement addressed to those who had been following his condition, the Coetzee family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support that Jerry had received in the days leading up to his death. They said he had personally appreciated every message of encouragement and concern sent his way.
A career built on service and camaraderie
Coetzee dedicated his life to the South African Air Force (SAAF), with a particular fondness for his time at 35 Squadron. The family described how much he treasured the friendships and working relationships he built with the men and women he served alongside over the course of his career.
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
His family confirmed that details of a memorial service would be shared within the following day or two.
View the Facebook video below:
Fellow airmen pay their respects
Those who knew Coetzee remembered him warmly. Some had served under him directly, while others had only recently had the chance to meet him. They reached out on the page:
Andrew Jansen van Vuuren wrote:
"Had coffee with him almost 7 months ago at Sage and Thyme. Was my first boss in SAAF Air Force."
Eugene Richardson shared:
"Only met him recently at Air Force museum, what a nice chap. RIP uncle Jerry."
Antony Moller said:
"Salute and Respect, RIP General."
Pierrene Molander added:
"My deepest sympathy, family."
Steve Boland wrote:
"Respect salute RIP 🙏"
More Briefly News stories on tributes
- Grantleigh Schools is mourning the loss of 17-year-old Grade 11 learner Cebolenkosi Mlambo, remembered by his school community for his kindness and positive impact.
- South African filmmaker Beth Neale paid tribute to conservationist Steve Smit, known as the “Monkey Man”, following his death after decades of caring for monkeys.
- A South African artist honoured the late Bibo by creating a stunning smoke portrait, with the emotional tribute touching Mzansi.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Source: Briefly News
