Monday, July 4, 2022
The Man I Knew – Big Jerry
While my time with Big Jerry was shorter than most of his immediate family – he left an indelible impact. I cannot bear witness to the 73 fast back Mustang courtship of my sister-in-law Debbie but I have no doubt it was glorious! He had the looks of an Italian Movie star (think Marlon Brando, Godfather, 1972 -except better looking)…I think he was pulled in by Debbie’s beauty, initially and he remained captivated by her intellect, quick wit, and rebellious streak for 49 years! I am able to state that they did not settle down too much as he continued to “hit-on” Debbie (flirt shamelessly) after they had lived for years as Mimi and PawPaw!
But I digress, I heard of Big Jerry’s escapades when my husband and I were dating. Before we met I actually already liked the man – Meeting him only confirmed what I thought. Big man with a big heart – not afraid to laugh at life or at himself. He was a solid man – hard worker, loyal husband and father…the man dug a pond for his wife in his backyard twice! Not many men would dig one.
The evidence of a life well lived is first seen in his children. Little Jerry, Laura, and Russell are all good people. Each are hardworking, intelligent, and lead their children with integrity and grit. Yes, I said “grit” for those from the South (sorry Pawpaw) is the art of getting it – getting up when you’ve been knocked down and do it even better the second time (awe, they got that from him -remember that second hole for the perfect pond).
Further evidence of Big Jerry’s legacy are his grandchildren Taylor, LJ, Charlie, Sarah, Brady, Parker, and Riley. They are awesome! That’s they are each unique, intelligent, and loved going to Mimi and PawPaw’s - Always good food, sustaining love, and laughter! I observed the love that these children gave and received. From the mischievous streak finely woven from Big Jerry to Laura (the sparkle in her daddy’s eye) and as evidenced in that same half-hidden cheeky look in Riley’s smile sometimes! I see him in Parker’s work ethics. He works five days a week and saves his money. Brady’s love and loyalty is a shining tribute as an 18 year old young man working a job, prepping for collage, and still spending quality time with Mimi and PawPaw tops his list of priorities. Charlie and Sarah also, intelligent and loyal -reflect some of his analytical traits. Whether it was reading or watching YouTube PawPaw was gathering the information, sorting it, and forming his own opinions. Whether it was politics or buying used truck he would make up his own mind. Taylor and LJ are all of the above and growing up strong, loyal, and kind. Wow, what a legacy…we could all only hope to do as well and be as loved. To Debbie and family PawPaw is always with you and at times words are trite and hallow to fill that void, I know. I believe loving someone whole-heartedly means you’d take the pain you are going through without him all over again if it meant one more smile, five minutes, to hear his voice.
With love Big Jerry -
Julie
