Jerry Michael Crump

In Loving Memory of Jerry Michael Crump

Jerry Michael Crump, born on November 11, 1944, in Amherst, Texas, to Iola Keithley and Ernest Wayne Crump, passed away at home on August 1, 2024 surrounded by family, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Jerry's life was a testament to strength, dedication, optimism and love.

Jerry's early years in Seagraves, Texas, were marked by his academic talent and athletic skill. As a standout in both the classroom and on the football field, he made a lasting impression on his community and laid the foundation for a lifetime of achievement. It was during these years that he met Jo Denna Ellerd, his beloved wife of 58 plus years. Their long marriage highlights the strength of their partnership and the joy that they found in each other throughout their lives together.

Graduating from high school in 1963, Jerry continued his education at West Texas State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in 1967. He served with distinction in the US Army from 1968 to 1970 and earned a Master’s degree in management in 1982, reflecting his dedication to duty and his strong work ethic.

Jerry’s professional career spanned 37 years with the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency in St. Louis, where he began as a cartographer and later rose to a management position. He retired in 2004, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and integrity.

Beyond his professional life, Jerry was a man of diverse interests. He found joy in the great outdoors in activities such as hunting, fishing, camping, backpacking, cycling, and beekeeping. His love for exploration took him across the United States and around the world, enriching his life with experiences and cherished memories.

Jerry was predeceased by his daughter Danyelle (1967), son Michael (1969), father Wayne (2001) and mother Iola (2015). Despite these losses, Jerry’s strength, resilience and positivity were a source of inspiration to all who knew him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Jo; his son Scott (Kelly); daughter Kami Schaefer; grandson Brandon Schaefer and his brother Ronald Crump (Edith). Jerry's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

In honoring Jerry’s life, we remember his dedication, his love for his family, his zest for life, and his unwavering positivity. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Jerry's visitation will be held at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County Chapel on Saturday August 10, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until funeral service at 11:00 a.m. A graveside service for Jerry will be held the following Monday, August 12, at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 10:00 a.m. with procession leaving the funeral home at 9:30 a.m.