Jerry Melvin Sheets Sr.

Jerry Melvin Sheets Sr., affectionately known to all as "Gramps," was a man deeply loved by many and known throughout Yale and the surrounding areas for his kindness, enthusiasm, and unwavering support of family and community. He was born on November 26, 1939, to Melvin and Mary Delilah (Iman) Sheets in Muncie, Indiana. Jerry was married to Gladys Hopkins Pfeiffer in October of 1957; together they had three children: Tammi, Cindi, and Jerry Jr. Later, he married the love of his life, Nona Joy Rose, on December 18, 1973; together they had one child, DeeAnn. Jerry passed from this life on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at his home in Glencoe.

Jerry was an amazing husband, father, and grandfather whose greatest joy in life was his family. His love was steady, genuine, and unconditional, and he took immense pride in every moment spent with those he loved most. To his grandchildren, Gramps was not just a name, but a title earned through love, laughter, and constant presence.

A passionate sports fan, Jerry proudly cheered for the Miami Dolphins and was a lifelong NASCAR enthusiast, especially devoted to Dale Earnhardt Sr. He also loved to dance, never missing an opportunity to enjoy the music and share a smile. One of his greatest pleasures was attending Yale football and basketball games, where he could most often be found cheering loudly, especially when his grandkids were on the field or court.

Known far and wide simply as "Gramps," Jerry had a way of making everyone feel like family. His warmth, humor, and loyal spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He will be remembered not only for the teams he rooted for, or the games he attended, but for the love he gave so freely and the memories he created that will be cherished forever.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Mary (Iman) Sheets; brother, Jack West; sister, Mary Posey; brother, Rodney Sheets Sr.; sister, Melanie Reed; brother, Scott Sheets; sister, Martha Lee Sheets; one grandson, Justin Maxwell.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Nona Joy Sheets; five children: Tammi Truitt (Justin), Cindi Anderson, Jerry Sheets Jr. (Kim), DeeAnn Maxwell (Richard), Rodney Sheets Jr. (Sandy); two siblings: Sue Carol Bales and Patty Rollins; one sister-in-law, Carolann West. Jerry is also survived by 15 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.

Jerry Melvin Sheets Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and community that will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home. A viewing will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at Crossroads Community Church with Pastor Mike Clark officiating.

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