Jerry Gene McKissack

Jerry Gene McKissack, 94, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025. Born on April 11, 1931, in Waldo, Arkansas, Jerry lived a long and full life, marked by service, hard work, and love for his family and friends.

Jerry served proudly served his country 38 years- 4 in the Navy on the USS Kearsarge during the Korean War 1950-1953.  He completed his career as Chief Master Sergeant Maintenance Control Supervisor in the US Air Force, receiving credit for non-combat service during the Vietnam War. He had a gift for fixing things, and his attention to detail showed in everything he did.

Outside of work, Jerry loved the simple joys of life. Family reunions were special to him, and he could often be found tending to his two-acre garden, which he kept with great pride. He also enjoyed traveling in his RV—especially trips to Florida—often joined by his square dance club friends on camping adventures that created many lasting memories. Both a skilled square dance caller and an enthusiastic dancer, Jerry found joy in the rhythm of music, the fun of travel, and the friendships built along the way.

Jerry never met a story he couldn’t tell well—especially those drawn from his military days—and people loved to listen. He found peace in watching red birds and hummingbirds from his yard. He had a sweet tooth for candy kisses, peppermint drops, and orange slices, and he was known to enjoy a “slick willy” drink now and then. But when it came to dessert, he’d always pick pie over cake, with egg custard and coconut ranking at the top.

He is survived by his daughter, Sherrie Williams of Benton; grandchildren Brian Hutchins (Christy) of Paron and Leah Briggs (Jason) of Benton; great-grandchildren Olivia, David, Shelby, Lizzie, and JJ Hutchins; sister-in-law Willie Faye McKissack of Little Rock; and close friends Bob and Sharon Prince, Ken and Becky Calhoun, Pat Calhoun, and Frances Shaw. Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Jewell Dean McKissack; his parents, Arrin and Frances (Granger) McKissack; and his brothers Louie, Earnest, and Pete.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, September 23, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton. Funeral service will be Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church of Bryant. Burial will follow Monday, September 29, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock.  Honored to serve as pallbearers are Brian Hutchins, Jason Briggs, Bob Price, David Hutchins, and Bill Brothers.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in his honor to Bryant United Methodist Church, 508 N Reynolds Rd, Bryant, AR 72022.

Jerry will be remembered for his love of family, his stories, his laughter, and the kindness he showed to everyone who knew him.