MARENGO — Jerry Dean Belcher, 67, of Marengo, passed away peacefully Monday, Jan. 27, 2020, at his residence surrounded by his loving family.
Jerry was born July 2, 1952, in Mount Gilead, early, weighing only 2 pounds. 8 oz. The first preemie in Morrow County, he was the son of the late James Greenville and Hazel (Corwin) Belcher. Jerry graduated from Highland High School in 1970 and would go on and attend The Ohio State University where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in animal science in 1974. Jerry was a farmer for all of his life, and didn’t let his illness these past couple of months slow him down from working the land which he loved. He was a lifelong member of the Sparta United Methodist Church. Jerry was also a member of the “In His Name” gospel group, who traveled statewide singing at several events.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 43 years, Kathy (Guiher) Belcher; sons, Jason (Kaylee Savage), Jared (Danielle), Justin (Maiya) Belcher; grandchildren, Brayden, Raegan and Colt Belcher; sisters Rita Porter, Sondra (Jay) Coe, Diane (Bill) Mahan; numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother-in-law Leslie “Butch” Porter. Jerry was very passionate about farming, but when he wasn’t working the long hours in the field, he was either singing, or tinkering on his Allis Chalmers tractors. Jerry’s greatest joy in life was becoming a father and raising his three sons, and then again when he became a grandfather. His family and those close to him will remember him as the kind, faithful, stubborn and relentless, husband, father, grandfather, and brother that he was.
Family and friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at The Sparta United Methodist Church, 22 North Church St., Sparta. Pastor Ryan Skelton will officiate funeral services at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 31, at the Sparta United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed towards the Sparta United Methodist Church, 22 North Church St., Sparta, OH 43350.
To share a fond memory or to leave a message of condolence please visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
The DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home in Sunbury is assisting the family with arrangements.