Dateline: Brighton
Gerald Lee Rich, "Jerry Lee", 75, passed away at 9:10 a.m. Monday, October 6, 2014 at his home. Born May 27, 1939 in Carlinville, he was the son of Lee F. and Esther (Burrows) Rich. Jerry was a 1957 graduate of Alton High School and was a member of the Bethalto Church of God. He retired from the auto body department at Piasa Lincoln Mercury in March of 1997 after 40 years of service in the auto body industry. He taught the auto body course at West Palm Beach Tech in Florida for 3 years prior to his retirement. On November 27, 1958 he married the former Edythe "Eydie" Wardle. They shared a committed and loving marriage of 56 years. He is survived by his wife, Eydie, his children, Gary Rich and Shirlee Rich-Warren and her husband Sherwood Warren. He leaves behind five grandchildren, Nicholas Rich, Nicole Rich, Joseph Lee Rich, Jonathan Warren and his wife Kendra, and Emilee Warren. Also surviving are his four great-grandchildren, Carson, Hope, Xander and Zoey Warren. He has two brothers, Darrell Rich and Susan of Georgia, David Rich and Carla of Missouri, a sister, Linda Copeland and her husband Benny of Illinois, a dear friend, Dorothy Milligan, and many other close friends. He also leaves behind his beloved dog Laci and grand dog Macy. Jerry Lee was a beautiful Christian man, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will most definitely be missed by all who had the privilege to know him. He gave Godly advice and wisdom to his children and grandchildren. He would stop whatever he was doing to help anyone in need. He enjoyed listening to Rock 'n Roll and bluegrass music. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of funeral service at 12:00 noon Thursday, October 9, 2014 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Reverend Tim Campbell will officiate.


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