Minister Jerry Ronald Young

Minister Jerry Ronald Young passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at St. John Progressive Missionary Baptist Church, 2504 Chipco Street, Tampa, FL 33605, with Reverend Dr. Bartholomew Banks, Sr., Officiating. Interment will follow in Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery, 4615 East Hanna Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605.

Minister Jerry Ronald Young was born on October 22, 1946, in Pahokee, Florida, to Louise Cummings Young. The second oldest of eight children, Jerry's life was rooted in humble beginnings, strengthened by deep family bonds, and guided by an unwavering faith that carried him through every season.

Jerry was a trailblazer. He matriculated through the School District of Palm Beach County and graduated as an honor student from East Lake High School in 1964. His acceptance to Florida A&M University marked a transformative milestone not only for him but also for his younger siblings, who looked up to him with admiration. To them, Jerry was more than a brother leaving home-he was living proof that change was possible.

At Florida A&M University, he proudly played the trumpet in the world-renowned Marching 100, standing among leaders and scholars committed to excellence and service. He graduated in 1968 with a Bachelor's degree in Sociology, equipped with both education and purpose. He began his professional career as a social worker at the Bradenton Employment Agency in Manatee County, serving others with compassion, dignity, and deep understanding.

In June 1985, Jerry began what would become a remarkable 34-year career with the United States Postal Service at the Southgate location in Sarasota, Florida and in 1997, he was ordained as a Minister at Mt. Raymond Full Gospel Baptist Church in Palmetto, Florida.

In 2013, he married Mary Young and together they became devoted members of St. John Progressive Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Dr. Bartholomew Banks Sr. In retirement, he faced several health challenges, and Mary stood faithfully by his side, caring for him with unwavering love, grace, and devotion.

On February 15, 2026, Jerry peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home. As Scripture promises, "Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day (2 Timothy 4:8; ESV)." He fought a good fight. He finished his course. He kept the faith (2 Timothy 4:7; ESV).

Jerry was preceded in death by: his grandmother, Lila Mae Cummings; his mother, Louise Young; and his sister, Edith Caldwell.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Mary Young; daughters, Nyree Marchelle Young, Shayla Latrice Young, Chelsea Louise Love (Richard), Katrece Gerri Young, Bridgett Wilson and LaToya Bellamy; sons, Reginald Wilson and Charles Wilson Jr.; grandchildren, Antonio Puente, Soniya Stewart, Gabriella Carroll, Abigail Bright, Re'Al Langston, Charles Wilson, Symira Wilson, Keisha Wilson, Cory Wilson, Cleavon Wilson, Cornell Wilson, Haylee Edwards and Breanna Bellamy; siblings, Jerome Young (Williejo) of Loxahatchee, FL; Howard Young of Daytona, FL; Eunice Caldwell of Miramar, FL; Henry Young (Ruth) of Jacksonville, FL; Darren Young of West Palm Beach, FL; and Deborah Ann Perry of Pahokee, FL as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends whose lives he touched.

Minister Jerry Ronald Young leaves behind a legacy of resilience, faith, love, and possibility. Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing that he now rests in God's eternal peace-free, whole, and welcomed with the same love he so generously gave throughout his life.

May his memory forever be a blessing, and may his legacy continue to shine through each of us.

The family humbly expresses heartfelt gratitude for the prayers, kind words, and expressions of love during this season of bereavement. Your support has touched us deeply and will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606.

Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners

www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com