Gerald Evan Grissom, known to all as Jerry, peacefully passed away in his home on February 14, 2020 after 82 years of a life well lived. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Bessie Grissom of Louisiana; brother, Sonny Grissom; three sisters, Faye Appling, Wanda Jennison, Sue Posey; and his sons Rodney Grissom and Brian Grissom.
Jerry was born May 10, 1937 in Bend, Oregon, graduating from Bend High School class of 1956. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy prior to his graduation, proudly serving on three naval ships, the USS F.D.Roosevelt (CVA-42), USS Ranger (CVA-61) and USS Zalima (AF-49) before being honorably discharged in November 1960.
He returned to Bend after his military experience, living in Hillsboro, Or and Wasilla, AK before moving back to central Oregon settling down in Prineville with his wife Pat. There they lived for 22 years before his passing.
Jerry was a proud member of the Band of Brothers of Prineville and enjoyed wearing his organizational hat and jacket everywhere he traveled inside and outside of Oregon. He never met anyone that he didn't know and quickly made friends everywhere he went. Jerry was an accomplished heavy equipment operator, as well as a much appreciated DIY mechanic and craftsman willing to help anyone that needed it.
He is survived by his spouse of nearly 42 years, Patsy Grissom; including sons, Robert Haldy, Terry Haldy, Ross Haldy; and daughter, Jerris Grissom. 10 Grandchildren and many Great Grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
A viewing for neighbors and friends will be done at the Prineville Funeral Home 10am-2pm on Tuesday, February 18, 2020 with a light reception following at their home. A post cremation memorial will be conducted at the Willamette National Cemetery located at 11800 SE MT Scott Blvd, Happy Valley, OR 97086 at 9:30 am on Friday, February 21, 2020.
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