Jerry Clayton Elder

Jerry Clayton Elder, aged 74, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2023 at Parkview Regional Medical Center with his family at his bedside watching Notre Dame football. His family is very saddened at the passing of such a wonderful member of the Elder family. Jerry was born February 6, 1949 in Mayfield, Kentucky, the youngest of eight children.

Jerry graduated from Central High School and among his first jobs were working at Maloley's and Supervalu. He was a member of Teamsters Local 414 working for Monarch Foodservice, which later became US Foodservice, until his retirement. His nickname at work was "Cool" which was fitting for him.

He loved cheering for Notre Dame sports and wearing their merchandise; he loved to play basketball and was known as "Speedy Red". He became a member of the Bowling Hall of Fame when he bowled a perfect 300, and played the lottery faithfully.

Jerry was a loyal friend and a supportive family member to everyone including his nieces, nephews, cousins and anyone who came by who quickly became family. He loved attending family reunions in both Indiana and Kentucky, fishing with his grandchildren and spending time with them. He also enjoyed spending time outdoors whether it be at home or at the lake, spending countless hours sitting at his picnic table. Jerry loved to mow grass.

Jerry was a member of the Catholic Church and would love to share his love for Jesus and care for others. He showed his faith in action, always willing to help anyone in need. He is now in Heaven, without illness, and reunited with his family and friends that have passed before him. Jerry will be truly missed until the day we are reunited.

Jerry is survived by his children Chad (Tracy) Elder and Mary (Jason) Romain; ten grandchildren, Brianna, Maya, Nora, Chad Jr., Nadine, Isaac, Addison, Isabella, Hailey and Stella; and three great grandchildren, Bobby, Harper and Henry. He was preceded in death by his parents, John Raymond Elder and Mary Victoria (nee Jolly) Elder; his sisters and brothers, Edna Johnson, Frances Bloodgood, Dorothy Neukam, Sue lce, John Kenneth Elder, Thomas Elder and Joyce Morgan; and the mother of his children, Barbara Clifton.

Mass of Christian Burial is 12:00 p.m. Saturday, January 13, 2023 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 2213 Brooklyn Avenue, Fort Wayne, with calling one hour prior. Friends and family will be received from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 12, 2023 at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Avenue, Fort Wayne.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to Anthony Wayne Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, 8315 West Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804.