Jerry was raised in California and Nevada, MO. He attended Nevada High School, then served in the U. S. Army, stationed in Germany and Korea during the Vietnam Era. After his service, he returned to Nevada and worked at FRAM and the Nevada State Hospital for a number of years. He was also self-employed for a time. Jerry loved racing cars and fishing. He was a member of the Nevada American Legion.
Jerry is survived by his son, Jeremy Stafford and family, Ft. Scott, KS; nieces and nephews, Patty Hancock (Dennis), Darla Thomas, Lynn Schooley, Larry Schooley, Terri Morton, Wendy Myers, Gail Stafford, and Danny Stafford; as well as numerous great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Gaila Schooley and Dixie Thomas; and 2 brothers, Rick Stafford and John Stafford.
Graveside services with military honors will be held at 12:30 p.m., Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Fort Scott National Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS, with Dennis Hancock officiating. Memorial contributions to the Nevada American Legion are suggested and can be made in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada, MO.