Oct 26, 1926 - Sept 22, 2012 OKLAHOMA CITY Gerald "Jerry" Warner, age 85, passed from his life on September 22, 2012. He was born October 26, 1926, on the farm in Bates County, Missouri, son of Leroy and Veda Warner. A longtime business leader in retail, he began his long and illustrious career as a young salesman and then as a manager of a Rothshild's store in Kansas City, Missouri. He ultimately rose to become President of Rothschild's for 12 years in Oklahoma City before becoming owner of Jerome's in 1982. He enjoyed deep friendships with other accomplished retail business leaders and fashion designers throughout the nation. He understood that business was not always about numbers; it was about people and relationships. And nobody knew better than Jerry how to create and nurture those crucial business relationships. In addition to being a successful businessman, he served as a Director of the Better Business Bureau and the Credit Bureau of Oklahoma City for numerous years. A man of extraordinary character and integrity, he was a warm, witty, and wise counselor to many in the business world and in his personal relationships. Jerry served in the U.S. Merchant Marines during World War II in the South Pacific. Upon returning home to Missouri, he married Norma, and they ultimately would enjoy 65 years of marriage. Jerry and Norma moved from Kansas City to Oklahoma City in 1966 and have lived here since that time. They were members of the United Methodist Church of the Servant. They enjoyed travel, but most of all, they cherished time spent with their family. Jerry's friends, family, and colleagues treasured his dry sense of humor, his love of life, and his concern for others. His parents and a younger brother preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Norma; his son, Mark and his wife Caroline and her daughter, Becky Lofton; granddaughter, Stephanie and her husband Rob Carnes; and granddaughter, Deborah. His family would like to give special thanks for the dedication and care he received from his healthcare team. Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 25, 2012, at the Smith and Kernke N. May Chapel in Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Church of the Servant in memory of Jerry.
Published in The Oklahoman on September 24, 2012
