Jerry Essex

Jerry A. Essex, 79, of Oquawka, died at 4:41 PM Saturday, June 4, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics surrounded by his loving family.

Born June 25, 1942, in Oquawka, IL, he was the son of Dale and Dorothy McDill Essex. On October 15, 1961, he married Diane Johnson in Messiah Lutheran Church in Burlington. They celebrated their 60th anniversary this past October. 

He was a 1960 graduate of G&O High School in Gladstone, IL. His interests included cars and playing basketball. 

Jerry worked for Sylvania as a mechanic for many years. He later transferred to Champion until his retirement. 

He attended Faith Bible Church of Oquawka, where he served by being an Awana leader for several years. Jerry also helped in the kitchen for many church events and was always one of the last to leave. He loved spending time outdoors, fishing and hunting, especially duck hunting. He also enjoyed collecting pocket knives, and always had one is his pocket. Jerry was an exceptional marksman, and was the Illinois State Trap Shooting Champion in 1973. Later in life, Jerry enjoyed sporting clays with his son and grandson. He loved to socialize and could always be found enjoying daily coffee with his friends. But most of all, Jerry enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandkids, they were the lights of his life.  

Jerry will be remembered for his sweet but ornery personality and always being willing to help anyone with anything. 

Survivors include his wife, Diane Essex of Oquawka, IL; son, Rick (Laura) Essex of Highland Village, TX; daughter, Shelly (Matt) Edwards of Oquawka, IL; six grandchildren, Hunter, Conner, Alana, Rachel, Emily and Maddie; and four great grandchildren, Abigail, Judah, Gideon and Micah.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.

The memorial service for Jerry will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, June 8, 2022, at Faith Bible Church of Oquawka with Pastor Mark Baker officiating. A time of food and fellowship will be held at Faith Bible Church immediately following the service. 

A memorial has been established for Faith Bible Church. 

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