Jerry Coleman Scott

Jerry Coleman Scott, affectionately known as Papa and Stingray, age 71, was born on September 19, 1954, in Thomasville, Georgia. He passed away on January 28, 2026, in Tifton, Georgia, following the selfless decision to donate his organs-giving others the gift of longer and better lives. Even in the end, Jerry was still helping people.

Jerry lived most of his life in Thomasville, Georgia, a place he loved and proudly called home. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ola Ledbetter; his father, Albert Scott, his daughter, Michelle Singletary; his son-in-law, Joseph Murphy; and his grandson, Wyatt Murphy.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Judy Scott, whom he would say was the greatest blessing of his life-"catching Judy" to be his wife. He is also survived by her children, Kristie Murphy, Brandi Tryan (Tiara), and Michael Tryan; bonus children Mandy Collier (Chris) and Kim Humphries (Curtis); grandchildren Bryce Tryan (Kaitlyn), Dierion Tryan, Brandon Hudson (McKayla), Rylie Dixon, Eli Collier, Amber Collier, Luke Collier, Thomaslee Singletary, Victory Singletary, Hank Murphy, Georgia Tryan, and Greisyn (Grey) Humphries; and great-grandchildren Bentley Tryan, Waylin Tryan, Bella Hudson, and Brooklyn Hudson. He is further survived by his sister, Francis Tomlinson, his brother, Albert Scott, Jr., and many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Jerry spent 36 years as a truck driver and was known for his willingness to drive just about anything. From school buses to trash trucks, to delivering cars for Toyota-if it had wheels, Jerry drove it. His strong work ethic and reliability were trademarks of his life.

His heart for service extended deeply into his church and community. Jerry was a faithful member of Rose City Church of God since 2007 and previously attended the Assembly of God in Thomasville for many years. At Rose City, he served as an usher, plumber, Young at Heart leader, yard burner, and whatever else was needed. He truly was a "Jack- or rather, Jerry-of all trades," always ready to help without being asked.

Jerry's greatest accomplishment was his family. He loved fiercely and showed that love by showing up. If there was a celebration, event, or difficult moment, you could count on Jerry to be there. He lived for children, especially his grandchildren, and took immense joy in being present in their lives.

He loved trucking, race cars, Bible study, and above all, people. Always smiling, Jerry never met a stranger. He would help anyone in need and never learned how to say no.

Services will be held at Rose City Church of God, located at 27450 N. Pinetree Blvd. off Highway 84 in Thomasville, Georgia. Viewing will begin at 1:00 PM on Saturday, January 31, 2026, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM. A procession will follow to Laurel Hill Cemetery for a brief graveside service. Food will be served afterward at Rose City Church of God.

Whiddon and Shiver Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all who participated in the Honor Walk at the hospital, everyone who visited, and the staff at Tifton Hospital for the exceptional care and dignity shown to Jerry and his organ donation. Because of his generosity, four individuals will live longer, better lives.

Jerry Coleman Scott leaves behind a legacy of love, service, faith, and presence-a man who always showed up and never stopped helping others.