Jerry Edward Herron

Jerry came into this world a fighter. Born with malaria on March 21, 1931, in Osceola, Mississippi County, Arkansas, he was the second child of the six children born to sharecroppers, Walter James and Ceatrice Jenkins Herron. Both preceded him in death. On January 11, 1957, in Melrose Park, Cook County, Indiana, Jerry married the love of his life, Frances Virginia Waldon, who survives him. Resigned to bachelorhood, even if it meant turning down Marilyn Monroe, Jerry's mind steadfastly changed on Miller Beach, the moment the moonlight hit Frances's hair. He said he knew he was in love with her that night and declared himself fortunate to marry the most beautiful woman in the world. Their union lasted for 68 years, until his death parted them. The union between Jerry and Frances produced a large legacy, beginning with their two sons, Christopher Edward "Topper" (Tammy) and Mitchell James "Mitch" (Dj) Herron. Years later, it expanded with six grandsons, including the following: Stephen Heath (Audrey), William Jay "Will" (Sumin), Dean Edward, Casey Shane (Hiromi), Clint Andrew (Erica), and Kyle Mathew Herron. And then, decades later, burst once again with the oncoming of great-grandchildren, Natalie Elizabeth, Emmalyn Rose, Trent Maxwell, Hayden James, Liam Jace, Chana Marie, Ashton Edward, Christopher Yuzuru, Samuel Jerry, and Elliott Isaac Herron. The beginning of the fifth generation brought them the pride of their first great-great-grandchild, Dawsyn Easterwood. Sadly, three great-grandchildren, Connor Edward, Bryce Anthony, and Dayson Leon, departed this world before him. Jerry was fortunate to have treasured relationships with his siblings, with whom he spent numerous hours on the phone, bridging the miles that separated them. Surviving him were sisters, Norma Jean and Glenda Gail Herron, and a brother, Douglas Wayne Herron. Also surviving him were brothers-in-law John David and Joe Michael "Mike" (Gloria) Waldon. Preceding Jerry in death were brothers Walter James "Buddy" and Larry Ray Herron, brothers-in-law Jerry Allen "Pete" and William Harold "Bill" Waldon, and sisters-in-law Betty Joyce and Doris Gaye Waldon, and Norma Faye Heaton Herron. Preceding in death also included nephew Dennis James Herron. Jerry's accomplishments were numerous and included serving his country and community. In 1951, flying for the first time, he followed the orders of the United States Air Force and reported to basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. During the Korean War, Jerry served his country as a radio operator, deciphering Morse code at 20 words per minute in Mishma, Japan. After leaving the Air Force, Jerry took advantage of the GI Bill to further his education. In 1961, he graduated from the University of North Alabama with two majors, Business Administration and Accounting, and two minors, Sociology and Economics. In 1964, Jerry's career, after taking several abrupt turns, landed him in the Fairfield Police Department. As a police officer, he faced escalated moments without trepidation. Modestly, he said," As a Police Officer, decisions are based on instinct, and you never know why you make the choices that you do." For three years, Jerry heroically placed his life on the line. In 1967, Jerry forfeited his badge and began a career that he would remain with until retiring in 1997, becoming a parole officer. He spent his retirement years on Smith Lake enjoying the jewels of his life, his wife, his family, and his home. On Saturday, April 19, 2025, Jerry left this world and grasped onto the next one. He died at home in Bremen, Alabama, surrounded by his closest family members. His biggest successes were his family and wife, who loved him. Jerry was cremated. A private ceremony was held in his honor.

Jerry Edward Herron

March 21, 1931 - April 19, 2025