Jerry Wayne Keith

Jerry Wayne Keith, 82, of El Dorado, AR passed away Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at the South Arkansas Regional Medical Center in El Dorado.

Jerry was born on October 19, 1942, in Magnolia, Arkansas. As a teen, Jerry graduated from Seminary in Latham, TX and upon moving back home he enlisted in the United States Army, which became his first career. He was a well-trained soldier, serving in the 101st Airborne Division as a paratrooper and medivac air ambulance pilot and retiring from the Army as a Chief Warrant Officer. His civilian career included owning and operating a construction company where he enjoyed remodeling homes.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Audna (Nipper) Keith; brothers, James Daniel "Jim" Keith and John Douglas Keith.

Jerry is survived by his children, Benny Keith and wife Angela of Magnolia, Barbie Bailey and husband David of Magnolia, Alex Keith and Braden Keith of El Dorado; grandchildren, Joshua D. Keith of Manchester, TN, Craig Bailey and wife Bethany of Texarkana, AR, Creighton Bailey and fiancé Carrie Gann, and Chanel Bailey of Magnolia; brothers, Lynn Keith of Taylor and William Craig Keith and wife Santina of New South Wales, Australia; sister-in-law, Sarah Keith of Magnolia; and a host of extended family and friends.

He taught his children the importance of faith and honesty and the value of standing up for what you believed in. His legacy will always be calculated by the value of his efforts in service to his country and consistent demonstration of love to his family.

Family and friends are invited to attend a United States Army Honor Guard Presentation on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Sharman Cemetery in Taylor, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.