of Marion, AR
March 6, 1937 - December 9, 2024
James Jerry Clements Sr. was called home to be with the Lord on December 9th, 2024. He died peacefully at home surrounded by family at the age of 87. Born on March 6th, 1937 in Jackson, TN, he was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Ellie Clements of Jackson, TN and older sister, Vivian Chambers of Jackson, MS. He leaves behind his wife of 68 years, Dorothy (Coates) Clements. Other surviving family members include his 4 children, Debbie (& Joe) Snyder, residing in Marion, AR, Mitzi (& Byron) Chadwick, residing in Skiatook, OK, Jerry (& Melanie) Clements, residing in Thornton, CO and Wendell Clements, residing in Cosby, TN. He also leaves behind 9 grandchildren, Mike (& Heather) Cordell, Natalie Cordell, Kelsey (& Jim) Bonsante , Paige (& Brian) Anderson, Morgan (& Tyler) Bell, Katie Clements, Kayla Snyder, Austin (& Nyana) Clements and Jonathan (& Jesse) Clements. As well as 10 great grandchildren, James Bonsante, Isabella Bonsante, Ryden Anderson, Presley Jo Anderson, Jordan Cordell, Cora Cordell, Bowden Bell, Griffen Clements, Callen Clements and Addison Crisman.
Raised in Jackson, Jerry graduated from Beech Bluff High School in 1956. Excelling as an athlete, he was a standout in basketball and received a scholarship to attend the University of Tennessee in Martin, but opted to enlist in the United States Air Force where he distinguished himself in service for 28 years. Upon retirement, at the age of 48, he returned to college and earned a position on the Shelby State golf team where he succeeded both on the course and in the classroom. After earning his degree, he worked for Americorps National Service and was instrumental in the expansion and development of Delta Service Corps. He and his wife Dot, were avid golfers and members of Meadowbrook Country Club for over 40 years. In his earlier years, he enjoyed coaching youth and adult basketball. He was a devout Christian and member of Immanuel Baptist Church where he taught children's Sunday School. His greatest gift was his sense of humor and his ability to make others laugh.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Dierksen Hospice workers who assisted him in his final days. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to his favorite charity, St Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Deepest sympathy to all the family. Mitzi and Natalie. We’re sorry for your loss. You’re in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Mike and Sheila Marasco
Dot and Debbie and families,
We just learned of your loss.
Praying for you all.
Dot we are so sorry to hear about Jerry. He was such good person. I know you will miss him. We remember the days of basketball at the Boys club
He was so good to all those kids, plus being a great coach.. Tim will be sad to hear this news. Praying for you and your family
We are very sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Bob & Jenny
Dot and Debbie & your families - I’m so sorry for your loss. I pray for peace and comfort for you in the difficult days ahead.