Jerry Don White passed away on February 1, 2026, at the age of 77. Born on November 24, 1948, in Leflore, Oklahoma, to Osborn “OJ” and Syble White, Jerry was the eldest of five children.

He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for eight years, an experience that took him to places such as Thailand and Greenland, where he served as a Telecommunications Operations Supervisor and attained the rank of Staff Sergeant.

On June 5, 1971, Jerry married the love of his life, Shirley Evans. Together they celebrated over 50 years of wedded bliss. Jerry could easily tell you exactly how many years, months, and days he and Shirley had been married.

Jerry had a variety of hobbies and interests that brought him and others joy. He was skilled in crafting, particularly enjoying making items with plastic canvas and punch needle rug making. A dedicated sports fan, Jerry enthusiastically followed the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals. He also found relaxation in watching old westerns and listening to music, often attending Christian concerts. Some of his favorite memories included going to Promise Keepers concerts with church friends and country gospel concerts with his in-laws.

Family was a central part of Jerry’s life. He cherished taking his nieces and nephews fishing and playing card and board games with them. He was a proud member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and a devout member of New Covenant Baptist Church in Parkville, Missouri, where he served for many years on the sound team and was an ordained deacon.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Shirley Jane White; his siblings, Janice White, James “David” White, and Sheila White; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Ted and Linda Gleason. He is survived by his youngest brother, Jeff.

Jerry will be fondly remembered by his many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Terrace Park Cemetery on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Jerry’s family extends their sincere thanks to the caring team at NKC Health and Hospice House, as well as the staff of White Oak Assisted Living, who became a second family to Jerry during his stay there.