He was a retired Lab Technician at Clearwater Paper and was of the Baptist faith. Jerry enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with his family and his ''golden child'' dog, and hanging out at the deer camp with friends. He was also a believer in education having never missed a day of school from Kindergarten through 12th grade. He was a graduate from the University of Arkansas at Monticello where he obtained his degree in Agriculture with a minor in Chemistry. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, James, Bill, Lonnie, Willard, Leslie, Charles, Rufus, Everett and Douglas; and sisters, Naomi, LaVel, Wanda and Lorraine.
Jerry was a man whose heart was as big as the outdoors he loved so dearly. Jerry lived a life full of purpose, joy, and connection, and while we feel the weight of his absence, we also feel the warmth of his legacy. Jerry was happiest under the open sky. He found peace in the quiet of the woods, excitement in the thrill of the hunt, joy in the gentle rhythm of casting a line into calm waters, or just sitting on the front porch watching his birds. Nature was his sanctuary, and he embraced every moment spent outdoors with gratitude and wonder.
But what truly made Jerry's life rich was the love he had for his family and friends. He was a devoted husband, a proud and loving daddy, and a deeply cherished papa. His family was his greatest treasure, and he never missed a chance to show how much they meant to him. At the center of Jerry's life was his beloved wife, Kathy. She was his soulmate, his steady rock, and his greatest joy. Their love was deep and enduring - a true partnership built on laughter, devotion, and shared memories.
Jerry had a special gift for bringing people together. He loved having get-togethers with his family and friends - whether it was a backyard barbecue, a holiday gathering, or just a casual evening filled with laughter and storytelling. Those moments of togetherness were where Jerry shined brightest. He believed that life was meant to be shared, and he made sure everyone around him felt welcome, valued, and loved.
He also had a soft spot for his feathered friends. Jerry loved his birds and took great joy in caring for them, watching them, and simply enjoying their company. And then there was Peppy- his loyal puppy, the golden child. Peppy wasn't just a pet; he was a constant companion, a source of comfort, and a true member of the family. The bond they shared was something special, and it brought Jerry so much happiness.
Jerry's kindness, steady presence, and sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. His friendships were built on loyalty and warmth, and his spirit will live on in the stories we tell, the traditions we carry forward, and the love we continue to share.
As we celebrate Jerry's life today, let us remember the joy he brought into our lives. Let us honor him by embracing the outdoors, cherishing our families, caring for the ones we love, and never missing a chance to gather with those who matter most. Rest well, Jerry. Your legacy lives on in every sunrise, every cast of a line, every bird's song, and every heartfelt laugh around the fire.
He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Kathy McCloud Lawson of Monticello; three daughters, Cyndy Woods and husband Jason of Monticello, Ashley Anthony and husband Rick of Monticello, and Becky Johnson and companion Joe Ahlers of Iowa; one sister, Frances Hatcher of Texas; grandchildren, Hunter Irvin and wife Lindsey of Sheridan, Levi and Jaci Woods of North Carolina, Jacob Woods, Hunter Anthony, Tyler Gibson, Blake Gibson and Hannah Anthony all of Monticello, Hannah and Shelby Johnson of Iowa; three great grandchildren, Heath, Daisy and Harvey; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Chapel with Rev. Tim Christmas officiating. There will be a visitation after the memorial service from 3:30-6:00 p.m. at the Hampton Inn. You can sign Jerry's guestbook registry here on his page.
Condolences(13)
Christina Brown
Monticello, AR Saturday, July 26, 2025 Ashley and family, thoughts and prayers for you during this time.Vickey Haycox
Monticello, AR Thursday, July 24, 2025 Kathy, I so sorry to read this. Jerry was a great guy and I can only imagine how lost you are without him. Praying for you and the family.Stacey Owens
Monticello, AR Thursday, July 24, 2025 Kathy and family. So sorry for your loss. Prayers for you all.Kay Ozment
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 23, 2025 So sorry for your loss!! Jerry was a special man. We went to school together and he was always kind. I know you all will miss him!! Prayers going for you all!!John and Paige Stell
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Becky, Ashley, Cyndy, Kathy and Family -You are all in our thoughts and prayers during the days ahead. Mr. Jerry always made me feel welcome and a part of the family when I was there. He will be missed but you all have so many great memories to cherish and keep him alive through. He definitely loved each of you very much.
Love,
John, Paige, and boys
Jimmy Lawson
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Kathy, Cindy, Becky and Ashley, I know this is a rough time for y'all. There is not much anyone can say to ease the pain and grievous moments you all are going through. I will just say that I am praying for all of ya'lls peace and comfort through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I know that in a short while it will really hit you that Jerry is gone and you will miss his voice and laughter and all other things that you shared in.But you will have the precious memories that you built with each other over the past many years, I too, have some very fond memories of times I had with Jerry from many years ago. God bless you each and everyone my dear family, I love all of you.Pam Leeper
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Cyndy and family,My prayers are with each of you during this time. So sorry for your loss.
Laci Harris
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 23, 2025 Ashley & Family,You are in our many thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I am so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. Mr. Jerry was such a kind soul. He will be missed by many, God Bless you all.
Sending many hugs and prayers,
Laci, Crayton, Parker & Rhett Harris
Brenda Reed and Family
Monticello, AR Wednesday, July 23, 2025 We are so sorry to hear this. Jerry was a good man and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Kathy and the family. May God wrap His loving arms around you giving peace and comfort.Judy Holt
Fayetteville, AR Tuesday, July 22, 2025 So sad to hear of the passing of Jerry. We were coworkers for years and close friends. We talked about anything and everything. So thankful that Eddie and I were able to go by Kathy and Jerry’s house to see him the last time we were in Monticello. Jerry was kind, smart, funny and just a great person. I will miss him. Eddie and I are praying for Kathy, the girls and all of Jerry’s family.Raymond Chisom
Monticello, AR Tuesday, July 22, 2025 So sorry for your loss. Jerry was a great class of 68 member. He will bee truly missed.Kay Worbington
Monticello, AR Tuesday, July 22, 2025 Dear Family, I am very sorry for your great loss! I've known Jerry for a very long time. He and my late husband were first cousins; their mom's were sisters. Jerry was a good, kind and well-liked person. You all have my prayers at this sad time! May you find comfort in knowing that Jerry is with the LORD.Ritchey & Paula Barnett
Monticello, AR Monday, July 21, 2025 Sorry to hear this. A kind man. Love and prayers for the family.