With heavy hearts, the family announces the passing of Jerry Wayne Moses Whitaker, beloved father, Pa, brother, friend, and Old Fart, at the age of 72.
Jerry was the bright light in every room, always with a quick comeback, an infectious laugh, and the kindest heart. He had a lifelong passion for working with his hands with anything from bikes, cars, and airplane engines. Jerry worked at his brother’s car shop in Washington State for a while, then at NAPA in Memphis, TN, before his extensive career with FedEx also in Memphis. When he moved to Mountain View in the 90s he spend his days with his beloved late wife running antique stores, the infamous Rocking Chair Flea Market with the well known giant wooden rocking chair and the most recent on the square, Déjà vu, people watching from his John Deere metal rocking chair and enjoying a front row view to Mountain View’s festivals and even winning the Longest Beard competition. His favorite thing more than anything else was spending time with his family, especially his grand-babies. His big personality, western watching, cigar-smoking self is already greatly missed.
Jerry was born in Kennett, MO on May 25, 1953, and passed away on March 13, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
Jerry is survived by his first round of children, son Wayne and wife Sandra Whitaker of Timbo and daughter Misty Whitaker of Mountain View. His second round of kids, sons Mikeel Whitaker of Mountain View, Danyeel and wife Dezarea Whitaker of Pleasant Grove, and daughter Ami and husband Travis Zajac of Mountain View. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jasmyn Whitaker, Quinley Whitaker, Moses(Ally) Whitaker, Aaron Whitaker, Levi Whitaker, Dani Whitaker, Sacelya Zajac, Josslyn Whitaker, and Teegan Zajac. Brothers Bobby(Arty) Whitaker of Washington, Shorty Whitaker of Missouri, and sister Eva Jean Graham of Missouri.
Jerry is preceded in death by his beloved wife Barbara Ann Whitaker of 46 years, and two children, an infant son of 3 months, Michael Allen Whitaker, and daughter Sacelya Ann Whitaker, aged 26. Also, his sister Nevadean Reel and brothers Wendell Whitaker and Weldon Whitaker.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
