Jerry Moore

Jerry Moore, 72, of Peoria, passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, at Carle Health Methodist Hospital in Peoria, Illinois.
Jerry was born on August 17, 1953, in Tchula, Mississippi, to Moses Grant and Mildred Moore Sims. In 2016, he married Michele Donnan.
Jerry was a devoted husband, father, and family man who found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was a passionate fan of the Chicago Bears, the Fighting Illini, and the St. Louis Cardinals. He loved spending time outdoors, enjoying nature, and could often be found sitting outside watching the world go by. A true enthusiast at heart, Jerry was an avid card player, admired classic cars, and enjoyed riding his Harley. He also loved traveling and creating lasting memories with his loved ones.
A man of faith, Jerry was a proud member of Star of Hope Missionary Baptist Church.
Cherishing his memory are his loving wife, Michele, and his children: Jermaine (Kim) Lawson of Merrillville, Indiana; Felicia Kennedy, Terrance Herrod, and Emanuel Kennedy, all of Peoria, Illinois; stepchildren Andrea Purifoy and Terry Lawson, both of Kansas City, Missouri; and Keri Hayes, Michael Hayes, and Christina Hayes, all of Peoria, Illinois.
He is also survived by his sisters Rochelle Sims and Rosemary (Tony) Abu-Abraham, both of Chicago, Illinois; Diane Grimes, Peoria, Illinois; Marsha Wingo and Karen (Mark) Washington, both of Cleveland, Ohio; and special sister Louise Irby of Peoria, Illinois.
Jerry is survived by his brothers: Danny (Dedra) Sims, Chicago, Illinois; Kenny (Anita) Grant and Odie (Vicki) Grant, all of Cleveland, Ohio; and special brothers Curtis Moore and Lynn Moore, both of Peoria, Illinois.
Jerry leaves behind a loving host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever hold him in their hearts.
He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather Roger Sims; brothers Rory Sims, Michael Sims, Edward Sims, Arthur James Grant, and Thomas and John Moore, all of Cleveland, Ohio; one sister, Renee Hogan of Cleveland, Ohio; and his beloved grandmother, whom he affectionately called "Mama," Tempe Williams Moore.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at The Wilton Mortuary, 2101 North Knoxville Avenue, Peoria, Illinois, 61603. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with Reverend Vance Jordan officiating. Burial will take place at Lutheran Cemetery, Peoria, Illinois.
A repass will be held at Trewyn Park Pavilion following the interment.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Wilton Mortuary. Online condolences and tributes may be shared at www.thewiltonmortuary.com.
The Moore family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks for your love, support, phone calls, hugs, flowers, and condolences during this difficult time. Your kindness has brought comfort and strength to the entire family.