Dad was a servant to the end. Never claimed to be perfect, yet always working for the day when he would be perfected. He is perfect now! Always ready with advice, support, generous to the very core of his being. I believe that there are so many times when people were helped, touched, or positively impacted by dad. So many times that we will never know while on this earth.
Love is not always spoken; actions, however, do speak - - - volumes!
I am honored to be his son; honored to have his genes; awe-struck by his love for Christ and yet not surprised. Heaven has gained what this ugly world has lost!
We love you dad. We will miss you greatly! Our lives were richer, and will continue to be richer, because of you!
I will always remember Jerry as a thoughtful, giving person. His gifts were of his spirit. He shared himself through his stories, jokes and puns, along with his personal ministry.
When Carole and Jerry needed to come to Illinois for work in the 70's they stayed at the Layne family home until they could work out further plans. I remember one day when he put John, Phillip and Daniel in a radio flyer (wagon) and pulled them the 2 miles to Rome where he intended to get them icecream at the little grocery there. It must have been backbreaking for him as he had to stoop to hold the handle. (I wanted him to add a piece of rope to make it better for him) He invited me and Cindy, but we didn't want to go. I did try to warn him of the distance as he said 'it isn't far'. I think he would have pulled them all the way to Chillicothe if he had to- he was determined that those boys would have icecream no matter what! Off they went, Jerry hunched over with 3 boys in tow disappearing in the distance. Sure, there are many stories, but this one caused me (15 years old) to question my own parents love for me- how far were they willing to go?
I know he made many sacrifices along the way for his family, and did it with love and humor.
He will truely be missed.
I remember helping out a single mother or the elderly by shoveling their snow. Picking green beans and giving them to a needy family. Giving rides to church and Awana to anyone who needed a ride. Volunteering time to Awana headquarters and getting pulled over for stealing gas. (We were innocent.)
Dad (Jerry) was an example of loving those around him and putting others first. He followed 2 Timothy 2:15 and James 1:27 for sure!
I loved him and will miss him!
Love, David
I remember my Dad giving the last few bucks in his pocket to a stranger. He was supposed to spend it on gas for the car but he felt compelled to help the stranger out. It was so like my Dad to help others before himself. He was constantly giving help, lending a sympathetic ear or seeking some way to be involved in the lives of friends, family or even strangers. We will miss you Dad! Love John
