Jerald Graham Settlemyre

1942 - 2026

Jerald Graham Settlemyre

July 19, 1942 - January 1, 2026

Jerald Graham Settlemyre, age 83, of Greensboro, North Carolina, passed away on January 1, 2026. He was born on July 19, 1942, in Forest City, NC, to the late Arnold Settlemyre and Pauline Watts Settlemyre.

Jerry was known for his kindness, dedication, strong work ethic, and warm sense of humor. He proudly and honorably served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Texas and Korea, before returning home to Greensboro, NC. Throughout his career, he worked in the automotive field, first as a mechanic at Gate City Automotive and later at Smith Stokes Chrysler, where he retired as Service Manager.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Jerry shared a special bond with his son, Mike, through their mutual love of racing. From building and watching Mike race go-karts to Mike cheering on Jerry as he raced Mopar, these moments were treasured time spent together with his family and friends.

Above all, Jerry cherished his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Zella Cooper Settlemyre, of Greensboro; his brother, Bill Settlemyre (Pat), daughter in law Mary Ann Settlemyre; and those he lovingly claimed as his own: Karen Dodson (Glen); grandchildren of the heart Jennifer Thomas (Jonathan), Allison Brower (Richard), and his namesake, Graham Brower; along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Special thanks to one of his faithful friends and visitors, Ronnie Sykes.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Mary Alice Somers Settlemyre; his son Michael Settlemyre; and his brother, Thomas Settlemyre.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Mount Pisgah Methodist Church, at 2600 Pisgah Church Road, Greensboro, NC 27455. A reception will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mount Pisgah Methodist Church in Jerry's memory.