Jerry Wayne Kessinger

Jerry Kessinger, 83, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2022, at his home in Blanchard, OK.

Jerry Kessinger was born on September 30, 1938 in Tecumseh, Oklahoma, to Velma and Jewel (JW) Kessinger. He was the oldest brother of Barbara, Carol and Charles.
Jerry graduated from Lindsey High School with the class of 1957. He started his career as a Truck Driver and most recently worked for Grady County District 1 for 17 years until his retirement. A true worker at heart, even after retirement, Jerry worked for many years at Big S Auto.

He married Sylita Hightower on March 18, 1960 in Lindsey, Oklahoma. They were blessed with two children Jeffrey Wayne and Leticia (Trish) Shyrell. Jerry loved being an involved parent in his kids activities including little league sports and camping trips to Lake Thunderbird and Lake Tenkiller. Jerry and Sylita built a life together and a marriage that spanned 62 years. They enjoyed traveling to go see life long friends and enjoyed trips to Branson, MO.

Jerry had a love for fishing and racing with his family and close friends. One of his favorite roles was being "Papa" to his grandkids and great grandkids. He would teach them how to be ornery but mostly loved spending time and playing with them.


Jerry is survived by his wife of 62 years Sylita; son Jeffrey Kessinger; daughter Trish Bailey and husband Glen; granddaughter Whitney Houck and husband Bobby; granddaughter Jessica Bailey and Cole Loughridge; six great grandchildren Jet, Scarlett, Caleb, Emerson, Weston and Landry; sister in law Danna Blanton and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents Velma and JW Kessinger; in laws Heloise and Garland Hightower; sister Barbara Patterson and brother Charles Kessinger.