Jerry Taranto Sr.

In Loving Memory of Jerry Spencer Taranto Sr. May 7, 1939 – June 11, 2025 With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Jerry Spencer Taranto Sr., born May 7, 1939, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. Surrounded by the love of his family, Jerry left this world on June 11, 2025, at the age of 86. His life was a testament to kindness, wisdom, hard work, and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.
Jerry grew up in a close-knit family that valued community and commitment. In 1957, he began transforming his father's small tomato stand into what would become a cornerstone of the local community-the D'Iberville Curb Market. For more than two decades, the market was not only a thriving business but also a gathering place where Jerry built lasting relationships rooted in trust and integrity. In 1984, Jerry turned the page to a new chapter and opened Cedar Lake Hardware. But to Jerry, it was never just about tools and supplies-it was about service, connection, and community. Whether he was sketching plumbing diagrams on napkins or sharing tips on where the fish were biting, Jerry made every customer feel like family. Jerry's legacy lives on in the community he served, the family he loved, and the many lives he touched with his warm heart and generous spirit.
Above all, Jerry was a family man. His greatest joy came from the life he built with his beloved wife of 64 years, Ora Lee. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and enduring values. As a father and grandfather, Jerry was our hero-offering steady guidance, unconditional love, and a well-timed joke when we needed it most. His lessons, both practical and profound, will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Jerry is preceded in death by his loving parents, Julius and Wilda Taranto; his sister, Shirley Francis (Michael); and his brother, Julius "Scooter" Taranto Jr. (Barbara). He is survived by his devoted wife, Ora Lee; his brother, Michael Taranto (Kathy); his sons, Jerry Taranto Jr. (Gerald), Joseph Taranto (Vicky), and Jeffrey Taranto (Robbin); and his grandchildren, Joseph Taranto Jr. (Kayla), Rachael Combs (Josh),Christy Taranto and Jorrie Letort (Jason). Jerry also leaves behind 10 great-grandchildren, many beloved nieces and nephews, and a wide circle of friends who will forever cherish his memory.
A Mass of Christian Burial and celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Tuesday, June 17,2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 10482 Lemoyne Blvd, D'Iberville from 930am - 11:00am with mass starting at 11:00am. Interment will follow at D'Iberville Memorial Park, 11041 Gorenflo Road, D'Iberville,MS 39540.
In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to the St. Vincent De Paul Society of D'Iberville (228-392-6008).
Southern Mississippi Funeral Services are honored to serve the Taranto family. Please visit www.smfs.us to send your condolences and share your memories. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Jerry, please visit our Tree Store.