Jerry L. Elijah

Jerry L. Elijah, 76, passed away peacefully, in his sleep, with his wife, son, sister, and daughter-in-law by his side. He was born in Anderson, IN to Bette (Blueher) and Jack L. Elijah on March 10, 1947. He attended Anderson High School, graduating in 1965 and attended Ivy Tech after he returned from the Navy. He was stationed on the USS Kishwaukee during the Vietnam War. He worked for Dietzen’s Bakery and Lewis Brothers’ Bakery for 36 years and retired in 2001. He married Susan (Boone) Elijah, on March 28, 1969. They had 2 children and were married for 54 years.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Susan; son, Eric (Mollie) Elijah; sister, Susan (John) Rhule; 4 grandchildren, Joanna (Andrew) Brown Zumwalt, Jack A. Elijah, Grace M. Elijah, and Wyatt Boone Elijah; and 2 great-grandchildren, Ella and Keegan Zumwalt. He is also survived by Susan’s parents, Edith and Eddie Boone; his sisters-in-law, Claire Boone Barber and Ronna Wisner Boone; several nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his best friends, Bill Zerkel, Jerry Stires, Bob Milan, and (deceased) Bob Porter. He was extremely close to his neighbors, Brad and Lori Bond and Larry and Linda Wright.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Nicole Elijah Brown; his parents; and his brothers-in-law, James “Jim” R. Boone and Jim Barber.

Jerry wanted to be cremated and did not want a service. The family is planning to have a party to celebrate Jerry’s life at a later date. Memorial contributions in Jerry’s name may be gifted to the Animal Protection League- Cat Room.

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