Jerry Eugene “Dude” Young, 72, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on February 20, 2026. Jerry lived a life defined by passion, generosity, and a deep devotion to the people he loved.

Born on August 30, 1953, to Albert Young and Georgie Mae Young (née Alexander), Jerry grew up with a strong sense of family and a love for the simple joys of life. On June 6th, 1975 he was united in marriage to Ronda Young (née Fleming), beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. This past year, Jerry and Ronda celebrated 50 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring bond and the life they built together. To those closest to him, he was simply “Dude,” a nickname that reflected his easygoing spirit and that warm smile he brought into every room.

Racing was one of Dude’s greatest joys. He rarely missed a chance to watch an event in person, whether it was the thunder of NHRA drag racing or the gritty excitement of a local dirt track. The roar of engines and the energy of the crowd brought him a happiness that everyone around him could feel. He got just as much delight working on them and building them as he did watching them run!

He also had a lifelong love of billiards. Dude was not only a skilled player but a patient and encouraging teacher. Anyone who wanted to learn found in him a steady coach who cared as much about sharing the game as he did about playing it.

Above all, Dude loved his family. They were his greatest pride and the center of his world. He is survived by his wife, Ronda Young; his sons, Jeremy Young (Amy Carey Young) and Brad Young (LaCinda Jeffries Young); and his grandchildren, Brodie Roy, Brantley Young, Blake Young, and Brooklyn Young. He also leaves behind many siblings and countless nieces, nephews and friends. Each of them carries forward his warmth, his loyalty, and the joy he found in simply being together.

A visitation will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home North (3506 N. National, Springfield, MO 65803) on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. A graveside service will be observed at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens (3600 N. National, Springfield, MO 65803) on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Dude’s presence will be deeply missed, but the love he gave and the memories he created will remain a lasting gift to all who knew him.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home North.