Jerry Newkirk, 81, of Mt. Carmel, Illinois, peacefully passed away at his residence Sunday, July 7, 2024, with his wife by his side.

There will be a Celebration of Life Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 130 W. 6th Street, Mt. Carmel, Illinois. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m. until the time of service. Memorials may be made to Residential Hospice or First Baptist Church Food Pantry. They can be sent to Short-Cunningham Funeral Home, P.O. Box 397, Mt. Carmel, Illinois 62863.

Jerry was born September 20, 1942, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Bennie F. and Jewell O. (Bryant) Newkirk. He graduated from Mt. Carmel High School in the class of 1960, where he lettered in baseball. Jerry proudly served his country in the U.S. Marines.

On January 23, 1970, Jerry married Leah M. Glouser in Mt. Carmel, Illinois. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage. To this union two children were born: Cynthia M. (Jeff) Boggs and Jerry L. Newkirk, II, all of Mt. Carmel. Also surviving are three granddaughters: Jaxyn R. Newkirk, Caroline J. Boggs, and Jadyn L. Newkirk. Preceding Jerry in death were his parents and a brother Jack Newkirk.

He worked as a grain broker for NFO and a Motorcycle Dealer in Mt. Carmel. Jerry was a member of First Baptist Church. He taught a Sunday School class there. Jerry was a member of the American Legion.

He was an avid motorcyclist and raced them. He also enjoyed bicycle riding, going as far as Clarksville, Tennessee, and back to Mt. Carmel twice with Leah joining him!

Condolences may be sent to www.short-cunninghamfh.com

Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Jerry’s family.