Gerald Lee Messenger

Gerald Lee Messenger, known to friends and family simply as Gerald, brought laughter and joy to the world in the same generous portions as the sodas he once sold. Born in Aurora MO, Gerald's zest for life was as refreshing as a cold drink on a hot summer day. On September 21, 2025, at the age of 83, Gerald took his final bow in Springfield, MO, after a valiant bout with renal failure, leaving behind a legacy as effervescent as the bubbles in a soda pop.
A proud graduate of Hurley High School's class of 1960, Gerald's charisma and charm were as evident then as they were throughout his life. He played high-school basketball and told many a story about that period of his life.
His career was as varied and flavorful as the beverage brands he represented, from slinging 7-Up to charming the Coca-Cola crowd, and finally laying down roots at Mid-West Rug. Not one to rest on his laurels, Gerald also ventured into the world of independent insurance sales, proving that he could sell just about anything.
Gerald believed in helping those who were in need, just as we are commanded to by God, whether thru action or service.
No stranger to the garden, Gerald could often be found tending to his vegetable garden with the same care he gave to his relationships. His green thumb was almost as legendary as his storytelling. If you weren't ready to hear all about his vegetable crop or look at numerous pictures, you wouldn't ask "how's the garden doing?". He shared the bounty of the garden harvest with anyone and everyone.
Sports were another of Gerald's passions. Whether he was shooting hoops in his younger years or playing softball for the local summer team in his working years, his competitive spirit was always accompanied by a playful banter. His enthusiasm for basketball and baseball was infectious, and he was always ready to give you the latest stats of whatever sport was currently in season. He loved and followed the St. Louis Cardinals and MSU Bears basketball.
Gerald's home runs in life were his beloved family. He leaves behind his wife Lorena, his daughters, Denise and Debbie, and his step-son Jeremy, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sister Emma Lee, favorite niece Diana and nephew Joe. And many, many wonderful friends whom Gerald treasured and so enjoyed telling tales to.
As we lay to rest this man who had such a positive outlook, let us not say goodbye but rather, "See you later," for Gerald's spirit will live on in every joke told, every garden grown, and every game played. His life was a testament to the power of joy and positivity, and while the curtain may have closed on this particular act, the encore will resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. Gerald Lee Messenger, salesman, sports enthusiast and gardener extraordinaire will be sorely missed but never forgotten.