Jerry Boyd, the author of the humorous science fiction series Bob and Nikki, has passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack. His wife, Donna, announced the sad news on Facebook.
Jerry grew up in the Ozarks and settled in central Missouri. He worked as a machinist, short-order cook, and electronics assembly tech before becoming a stay-at-home dad while his wife worked. When his daughter left home, Jerry seized the opportunity to pursue his lifelong dream of writing.
In 2019, he published his first book, Bob’s Saucer Repair, kicking off the much-loved Bob and Nikki series. Bob, a regular guy who works as a mechanic, meets the love of his life (Nikki) when her spaceship falls out of the sky, into his garage. From there, they go on a series of adventures that involve aliens, cryptids, robots, and a multitude of other off-the-wall characters and wacky situations. By the end of the year, Jerry had already written six books in the series. Today, it spans an incredible 52 installments.
Fans describe the books as fun, fast-paced, lighthearted, and packed with humor. Many praise the well-crafted characters and the camaraderie they share. One reader called Jerry’s writing “a refreshing break” from more serious sci-fi, while another said it’s perfect for those who enjoy a “don’t peek behind the curtains—just enjoy the ride” experience.
Earlier this year, Jerry expanded his repertoire with the Fat Man’s Gift series, blending alternative history and humorous fantasy. In the first book, Mark’s Magic, a mechanic discovers his family heirlooms hold life-changing secrets that unlock a magical world.
Beyond writing, Jerry enjoyed working on his truck, building free-flight airplanes, tinkering with electronics, and shooting. His varied interests mirrored the creativity and curiosity he brought to his stories.
Jerry Boyd is survived by his wife and their daughter. His legacy lives on through his stories, which continue to bring joy to readers. For more, visit his Facebook page.