Jerry Lapham

Jerry Dean Lapham
September 5, 1958 – October 23, 2025
On Thursday, October 23, 2025, Jerry Dean Lapham of Holt, MI, was welcomed home into the arms of his Savior. Jerry gave his life to the Lord at age 14. Through danger, heartbreaks, sickness or despair, Jerry was without fear because he knew that God would never leave him.
Jerry was an avid writer, penning inspirational stories with the hopes of touching the hearts of his readers. As sincere as Jerry was when it came to his faith, he also had a quirky side. He enjoyed joking around and playfully teasing to get people to laugh. He was a collector of treasures, often referred to as the original American Picker or "Sanford." He enjoyed Bigfoot stories, estate sales, as well as softball and water balloon fights.
Jerry managed apartment complexes for many years. Educated in maintenance, he earned certificates in weatherization and safety. He also dabbled in small motor repair, TV repair, as well as jewelry restoration. One of Jerry's greatest talents was woodworking/carpentry. He was truly a "jack of all trades."
Jerry was born in Dowagiac, MI on September 5, 1958. He spent his early years in Wakelee, MI while attending Marcellus schools, and in adulthood, living all over Michigan, as well as Texas, Washington D.C. and West Virginia. Jerry was the fifth of seven children. He is survived by siblings: Judy Flora of Mishawaka, IN; Shirley "Jane" Lapham of Converse, TX; Jeanne Warren (Kenny) of Clarksville, TN; Roy Lapham of Marcellus, MI; John C. Lapham (Tammy) of Cassopolis, MI; Laurie Joly (Roger) of Mishawaka, IN; and niece, Molly Allen (Todd) of Three Rivers, MI who was with him in his final days.
At the age of 18, Jerry married Ruth Ann Bowers. Together they had three children: Ruth Clement (Chris) of Houston, TX; Crystal Joyce (Ed) of South Hills, NC; Travis Lapham (Jennifer) of Jacksonville, FL. He is also survived by grandchildren: Taylor Clement, Logan Joyce and Maddox Joyce; Great grandchild, Paisley, and another on the way.
Additionally, he leaves behind to cherish his memory, several nieces, nephews, cousins, special friends and neighbors. With his gentle, friendly demeanor and willingness to always lend a hand, he was well known and loved by many.
Jerry had what he called a "bonus family" through his beloved partner, Gloria Hamilton, of 24 years. They met later in life and were so blessed to find "The Notebook" kind of love for one another. Sadly, Gloria passed away on October 16, 2025, exactly one week prior to Jerry.
Gloria had a daughter, Jennifer Hamilton Isbell, and her husband Dave, who Jerry thought of as his own. He was close to Gloria's sister, Patricia, and her husband Tom, as well as Jennifer's stepdaughter, Miranda, who always looked out for them. Jerry helped Gloria care for her mother, Janice, while she was in assisted living. He and Janice had a special relationship. Jerry loved and doted on the elderly his entire life.
Over the years together, Jerry and Gloria raised several Shelties. He loved taking walks through the neighborhood, making friends along the way. It was social hour for him and the dog. He and Gloria leave behind their Sheltie, BB (Brinkley Blue), who will be adopted through a Traverse City animal rescue organization.
Jerry was preceded in death by his partner, Gloria Hamilton; parents John R. & Joan (Ayers) Lapham; Grandson, Hunter Clement; Sister-in-law, Kay Lapham, as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Jerry has chosen to donate his body to Michigan State University for research. His corneas were also donated. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the Calvary Bible Church located at 27032 Marcellus Highway in Dowagiac, MI at 11:00 AM. A luncheon will follow at the church.
There will also be a combined memorial for both Jerry and Gloria, hosted by Gloria's family, in the spring or early summer of 2026 with a date and time to be determined.
In Jerry's own words, "you will not see much earthly possessions...my true rewards will be the lives I have touched and pointed to Jesus." His absence will leave a void in many hearts, but we will meet again.
To view Gloria's obituary go to:
https://www.skinnerfuneralhome.com/obituaries/gloria-hamilton-2025