Jerry W. Lindley

Jerry W. Lindley, a cherished pillar of the West Union community, beloved family man, and friend to many, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024, at Marshall Rehab in Marshall, IL. Born on April 8, 1939, in the house he would grow up in West Union, IL, Jerry's 85 years would be marked by laughter, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.

The son of the late Herbert & Bernice (Midgett) Lindley, Jerry's early life was filled with the kind of innocent mischief that would later define his humorous outlook on life. He attended West Union Elementary School, where a young Jerry met his future wife, Martha Poorman. Their love story was one for the ages, with an off-and-on relationship that eventually culminated in marriage on May 28, 1960. Martha preceded him in death on December 17, 2022. Jerry also bid farewell to his sister, Nancy Joanna (Lindley) Newlin, and her husband, Richard, before his own passing. Jerry's legacy continues through his sons, Joseph William Lindley and James Warren & his wife, Ellen Lindley, and their daughters, Megen and Payton, who will forever cherish the memories and values he instilled in them.

A 1957 graduate of Marshall High School, Jerry was known for his adventurous spirit, once embarking on a spontaneous trip to Chicago with friends just to grab a coffee and returning in the early hours to his mother's disapproving yet silent glare. His youthful escapades, like "forgetting" his friends who were trying to sneak into the drive-in theater by hiding in the car's trunk, were the stuff of local legend.

After graduating from Marshall High School in 1957, Jerry began working for Caterpillar in Aurora, but his heart remained in West Union, leading him to drive down on weekends to visit Martha. By 1965, he had shifted gears to become the Layout Inspector for Case in Terre Haute, a position he held until the mid-1980s. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to purchase and operate Lindley's Grocery from 1985 until 2001, during which time Jerry generously supported the community through various donations and initiatives. His dedication to his hometown was further demonstrated by his years of service as one of West Union's original EMTs, his coaching of Little League baseball, and his active participation in the York Lodge #313, where he served as Master of the Lodge three times. A man of faith, Jerry also devoted many years as a deacon at the West Union Christian Church.

Jerry's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was an early adopter of computers, a skilled woodworker, and an avid genealogist, thanks to his cousin Virginia's influence. His coin collection was another testament to his eye for detail and value. But it was his wicked sense of humor, expressed through bad dad jokes and elaborate practical jokes, that many will remember most fondly.

In his twilight years, Jerry took pleasure in quieter pastimes such as crossword puzzles, but his giving nature never waned. He remained a steadfast presence, always ready to lend a hand or craft something special for those he loved. Whether it was building a brass curtain rod doll bed, crafting furniture for his family, or driving great distances to support his grandchildren's endeavors, his creative and generous spirit shone through in everything he did.

One of Jerry's most cherished moments came on his 85th birthday, coinciding with the day of a solar eclipse. After setting a goal to witness this celestial event, he was discharged from surgery just in time to marvel at the eclipse - a fitting metaphor for a man who lived a life of remarkable moments. Now that his passing has eclipsed the light of his life, we must remember that this is but a passing moment and only from our perspective. After all, by the grace of God, his light continues to shine in that perfect place where death is but a memory and tears are no more.

A time of visitation will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 11th, at the Prust Hosch Funeral Home in West Union. Cremation will follow, and a private family service will be held at the Bradbury Cemetery at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the "Alzheimer's Association", and memorial envelopes will be available at the funeral home.