Obituary

AVA – Jerry F. Guthrie, 78, of Ava, IL, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 24, 2023, at Memorial Hospital, Carbondale, IL.

Jerry was born in San Diego, CA, on April 29, 1944, the son of Howard J. and Loretta (Mayne) Guthrie. He attended Mar Vista high School in Imperial Beach, CA, and then served the U.S. Navy. Jerry married Kathy Thamsen on September 26, 1983, in San Diego, CA.

Jerry worked many years as an elementary school custodian. "Mr. Jerry" was much loved by the students. After retirement, he and Kathy relocated from San Diego to Ava in 1999.

Jerry loved the Lord and was a twenty-three year member of Denmark Baptist Church in Cutler, IL. His faith remained a comfort to him through the remainder of his life. Jerry never knew a stranger and was a friend to all who knew him. He brought joy and laughter to the lives of many. Jerry had a strong love for all animals, especially his Doberman Pincher dogs and many cats. He enjoyed fishing, weightlifting, watching old westerns, and the St. Louis Cardinals.

Jerry will be greatly missed by his wife, Kathy, sons, Vincent and Raymond (Jennifer), his sister, Charlcia Avila, sister-in-law, Marsha Bierman, grandchildren: Alyssa, Nicolette, Brianna, Mimi, Madison, Edieanne; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister.

It was Jerry's wish to be cremated and a memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be given to Denmark Baptist Church, c/o Wilson's Funeral Home, PO Box 277, Ava, IL, 62907.