Ernest Gerald “Jerry” Richey, 81, died peacefully at home Friday, October 25, 2024. Born on December 3, 1942, in Cleveland, Mississippi, to Houston Richey and Mary Alice Smitherman Richey, Jerry grew up in Belden and Saltillo area; but Tupelo is where he spent most of his adult life. He had recently moved to Saltillo to be closer to family.
Jerry was a devoted family man. Growing up, he was extremely close with his four siblings, and they remained close throughout his life. As his own family grew, he cherished each of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time with his close buddies. He really enjoyed reminiscing about “the good ole days”. Jerry was a funny and kind person who preferred the simple things in life. He found joy in fishing and hunting, especially rabbit hunting with his beagles. He was also an avid Dallas Cowboys fan and made many memories with family and friends while watching and cheering for them. It was a family tradition to watch the Super Bowl—whether with his sister or his son, he always watched with family.
He was a member of First United Pentecostal Church, PBI on Clayton Street in Tupelo, and often watched Billy Graham, Charles Stanley and Adrian Rodgers and other Christian evangelists. Jerry was known to do anything to help and encourage his family to regularly attend church and always put God first. Before retiring, Jerry worked a number of years with the City of Tupelo as a Dog Catcher then later joining the Tupelo Street Department. He also owned R&W Construction and, later, owned and operated Sunset Game Room in Tupelo with his sister.
Jerry is survived by his two children, Randy Richey of Saltillo, and Renae Dunlap (Ronnie) of Pontotoc; two grandchildren, Jessica Rodgers (Dustin) of Saltillo, and Kayla Hand of Mantachie; six great-grandchildren, Mercedes Rodgers, Dalson Rodgers, Sara Mulligan, Jonathan Mulligan, River Rodgers, and Karson Rollin; two brothers, Hoyt Richey (Johnnie Faye) of Senatobia, and Doug Richey of Alpine Community; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friend, Diane McGee.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 53 years, Sandra Richey; great-grandson, Waylon Reich; and two siblings, Bobby Wayne Richey and Sue Richey.
Visitation will be 4 until 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 29, 2024, and 12 p.m. until service time Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at Pegues, Tupelo.
Services honoring his life will be 3 p.m. Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at the Jefferson Street Chapel of Pegues. Burial will follow at Verona City Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Kevin Richey, Brad Richey, Dylan Richey, David Cernigliaro, George White, and Dexter Smith.
Honorary pallbearers will be Donnie Richey, Devin McKenzie, Jonathan Mulligan, Dalson Rodgers, and River Rodgers.
