Gerald Graham “Jerry” Middleton, a cherished husband, skilled craftsman, and devoted family man, peacefully departed this life on August 14, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on July 14, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois, Jerry’s journey eventually led him to Springfield, Missouri, where he built a life filled with family, friendship, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

In 1950, Jerry’s father, Charles, moved the family from Chicago to Mason, Michigan, where they lived for several years. Following his father’s passing in 1955, Jerry’s mother, Virginia, moved the family back to Chicago. As a young man, Jerry enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hunting pheasant and dove, and spending time with his siblings and friends.

Jerry graduated from East Leyden High School in June 1959 and began working as a machinist. In 1961, he married his first wife, Gail Bodecker. Together they welcomed their first son, William, followed shortly thereafter by their second son, David. Six years later, their family was completed with the birth of their daughter, Mary.

In 1979, Jerry moved his family from Chicago to Oakland, Arkansas, where he became the owner of the Barn Cafe near Bull Shoals Lake. During his years in Oakland, he also served for a number of years as a Marion County Deputy Sheriff and for a time as president of the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department. Jerry enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and lending a hand to neighbors with their home projects. He continued to operate the cafe until 1995, when he sold the restaurant and moved to Springfield, Missouri.

After moving to Springfield, Jerry returned to work as a machinist, drawing upon the skills and experience he had developed earlier in his life. Following Gail’s passing, Jerry married Vera “Kathy” Brower in 2001. He retired in 2002.

Jerry and Kathy enjoyed playing cards, spending time at the lake, searching for interesting rocks and driftwood, working in the yard, and going on walks with their dogs. Most of all, they treasured making memories and spending time with family.

Jerry leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, including his wife, Kathy Middleton; his children, William (Mae) Middleton, Mary (John) Macsata, Scott (Shannon) Brower, Melissa Storie, Tim (Kim) Brower, and Aaron (Amanda) Brower; 19 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; his brother, Jeffrey (Jill) Middleton; as well as many extended family members and cherished friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his first wife, Gail Middleton; his son, David Middleton; his parents, Charles and Virginia Middleton; his brother, Richard Middleton; and his sisters, Patricia Woodson and Virginia Middleton.