On the evening of Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022, Jerry Eugene Roberts passed away at home in Ferdinand surrounded by family. He was 56 years old.
Jerry was born 1965 in Columbus, Indiana to Lee and Phyllis “Till” Fallowell Roberts. Jerry was raised in Gnaw Bone, Indiana and graduated from Brown County High School. After graduation Jerry joined the Army to, “protect his family”, and became a member of the 82nd Airborne Division as an intelligence analyst and parachutist where he served for 10 years. He served in the Gulf War and was also stationed in Korea. He was honorably discharged in 1994 due to medical reasons.
In 1984 Jerry married Josephine “Jody” Bay and they welcomed two children, Jessica and John David.
Jerry and Jody parted ways and Jerry later married Michelle in the Patoka River “at the creek” on Aug. 16, 2014.
Jerry was a life-long fan of Notre Dame. His happy place was outside, especially in the woods. He loved camping with his family. His motto was, “The kids come first”, and always made sure to have hotdogs and marshmallows ready around the campfire. He loved to laugh and was often making jokes.
Jerry is survived by his loving wife Michelle; children Jessica “Nicki” (John) Mercer, John David Roberts, Rodger Castle III, Carl Castle, Holly Castle, and Cecilia Castle; Grandchildren Garrett and Clara Mercer; Parents Lee (Jackie) Roberts and Phyllis Fallowell; brothers Kevin (Tammy) Roberts and Dennis Roberts; sister Penny (Nadine) Roberts. He was preceded in death by his niece Mary Roberts Florence as well as his grandparents.
A private celebration of life was held Saturday, Aug. 6, including a weenie and marshmallow roast around a bonfire.
Special thanks to Kindred Hospice nurse Audra Fleck, RN, for her compassion and professional care.
Jerry generously donated his body to the University of Indiana School of Medicine. This gift will contribute significantly to the advancement of health science and education in the state of Indiana. Jerry said, “If someone can’t learn from my body they don’t need to be a doctor”. His remains were donated to the Anatomical Education program.
Donations in Jerry‘s memory may be made to: Indiana School of Medicine, 340 West 10th Street, Suite 6200, Indianapolis, IN 46202-3082.
