Jerry Wayne Miller, Sr, 77, of Hoopeston, IL, passed away at 2:03 P.M. Saturday February 25, 2023, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL. He was born September 25, 1945, in Tallulah, LA, the son of William Conrad and Sallie (Walker) Miller. He married Shirley Jean Crawford on October 11, 1966, in Watseka, IL. She preceded him in death on April 23, 2020.
He is survived by one daughter, Shannon (Curtis) Tidwell of Bartlett, TN; one son, Jerry Miller of Murphysboro, IL; three grandchildren, Chelsy (Shah) Afzal, Kyle Miller, and Braden Miller; one niece, Cassy Carter; one nephew, Wayne (Emily) Carter; two great-nieces, Gabby (Bailey) Crose and Cayley (Christian) Davis; and two great-nephews, Zach Carter and Carter Martin.
In addition to his wife, Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Wayne and Janet Carter.
Jerry worked at Tee Pak in Danville as a production worker for over forty years, until his retirement. He served in the United States Navy from June 29, 1963, to September 23, 1966. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed gambling, visiting with his friends, and feeding his squirrels. Jerry loved Louisiana sports and was a Chicago Cubs fan. While his children were growing up, he devoted his time to coaching youth athletics. Jerry was known by many as the bubble gum man, always having a smile on his face and bringing joy to many children.
A visitation will be held 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. Friday March 3, 2023, at Anderson Funeral Home 427 E. Main St. Hoopeston, IL. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday March 4, 2023, at the funeral home with Pastor Gary Milton officiating. Burial will follow in Floral Hill Cemetery in Hoopeston. Military rites will be accorded by the Hoopeston American Legion Post #384.
Memorial donations may be made in Jerry’s memory to the Hoopeston Animal Rescue Team (H.A.R.T), 901 W. Main St. Hoopeston, IL 60942.
Please visit www.anderson-funeral-home.com
