It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerald Gay Pettyjohn, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished member of the community. Gerald, lovingly known as Jerry, peacefully departed from this world on May 7, 2025, in Des Arc, AR, at the age of 80.Born on January 27, 1945, in Knoxville, TN, to Galen E. and Ann F. Pettyjohn, Jerry spent his childhood in Ohio before embarking on a journey filled with love, service, and devotion. After graduating from high school in 1963 in Dayton, OH, Jerry pursued a career as a truck driver for Rapid Service, where he dedicated himself to hard work.

However, Jerry's true passion lay in working alongside his beloved wife, Joy, in the ministry of the Church of God of Prophecy. Together, they spread messages of faith, hope, and compassion, touching the lives of countless individuals and making a lasting impact on their community.

Jerry's warm smile, kind heart, and unwavering dedication to his family made him truly special. He was a devoted husband of 16 years to Joy, a caring father to his son Shawn Pettyjohn and daughter Lisa Marshall (Glenn), stepchildren Janita Caskey, James and Yolanda Smith, Robert and Jennifer Loudermilk and a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren, and a loving great-grandfather to 10 great-grandchildren. His sister, Joyce Woofter (Larry), also survives him.

In addition to his family, Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His contributions to the community and society at large will forever be remembered, and his personal traits of humility, compassion, and resilience will remain in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.

As we mourn the loss of Jerry, we celebrate a life well-lived, a spirit that touched many, and a legacy of love that will endure for generations to come. Though he may be gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In this time of sorrow, may we find solace in the memories we shared with him and the love that will forever bind us together.

Rest in peace, dear Jerry. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit will shine on in our hearts forever.