Jerry was born on November 20, 1959 to parents Calvin Bryant and Betty (Higgins) Roberts in Lawrence, Kansas. He and his two brothers, Thomas and Ellis, grew up in Rosedale, among other places in the Kansas City area. When Calvin later married Margaret Turnbull, it blended two families and brought brother Tony into his life. Jerry graduated from J.C. Harmon High School in 1978.
Bear, as he was known to those close to him, loved all things mechanical. From small engines to vehicles, machinery and equipment, he has done it all. He loved to work with his hands and was never at rest if something he could tinker with was nearby. If there was a task at hand, Jerry could always come up with the solution. He was a mechanic by trade, and had even owned and operated his own repair business when he was younger. He also had a passion for gardening and growing, particularly Bonsai trees, flowering plants, and shrubbery. This allowed Jerry to instill his patience and care with his nurturing nature, to be creative and colorful. Jerry loved the outdoors and nature. Fishing was a popular pastime of his, and he cared for animals and pets of all kinds. Elaborate saltwater fish tanks and reptilian terrariums were a fascination he enjoyed artfully crafting. Jerry knew the value of hard work, honesty, and the truth of his word. These are attributes he sought to pass on to everyone he knew. We will remember Jerry for his positive attitude towards life, his unwavering strength to always give 100%, and his heart that always put others first.
Jerry was preceded in death by his father Calvin, brother Thomas, and brother Ellis. He is survived by mother Betty, loving wife and life partner Sarah, along with his children Heather (Mark), Jeremy (Andrea), and Jason (Faith). He is also survived by his two grandchildren Parker and Emma. Sarah’s daughters Deja, Shonyce, and Joan were also a close part of his life, and he loved them as his own.
For all of those he cared for and touched deeply, please join us in celebrating Jerry’s life with a visitation ceremony on the evening of Friday, March 4 th at 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the Warren-McElwain Mortuary Eudora Chapel (1003 John L Williams Dr., Eudora, KS 66025). A prayer service will begin promptly at 6:00 pm with Fr. Mick Mulvany, with the visitation to follow. Graveside funeral services to follow on the morning of Saturday, March 5 th at 10:00 am at the Eudora City Cemetery (2229 N 1420 Rd., Eudora, KS 66025).
Donations to help Jerry’s children pay for the funeral services may be kindly sent to the Warren-McElwain Mortuary by calling 785-843-1120 or address: (120 W 13 th St., Lawrence, KS 66044).
Warren-Mcelwain Mortuary Eudora Chapel
Eudora City Cemetery
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