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.

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