Gerald "Jerry" E. Anderson

Gerald "Jerry" E. Anderson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, in Topeka, Kansas, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 30, 1934, in Ravenna, Ohio, Jerry lived a life filled with dedication to his family, career, and community.

Jerry's professional journey began at Goodyear, where he started working at the tender age of 16. Over the span of 46 years, he dedicated his life to the company, serving in various locations including Akron, Ohio, Chehalis, Washington, and Topeka, Kansas. His commitment was recognized as he became a proud member of the Goodyear Foreman's Club and participated in the Men’s Bible Study group, showing both his professional and spiritual dedication.

A man of discipline and service, Jerry was drafted into the United States Army in December of 1955, where he served honorably for a decade. His experiences and values from this time shaped him into the even-keeled individual so many admired.

In addition to his professional and military accomplishments, Jerry was deeply passionate about many hobbies. Known for his remarkable ability to fix anything, he was in the process of restoring a pristine 1954 Corvette, whose engine was Bloomington Gold Certified. He was an active member of several car clubs including the Cleveland Electric Car Club, Omaha Corvette Club, Kansas City Restores Association and the Topeka Corvette Club where he served as President for eight years. He was also involved in the American Miniature Race Car Association (A.M.R.C.A.) for 25 years allowing him to share his passion with fellow racing enthusiasts.

Jerry was not only known for his skills with vehicles but also for his unwavering faith. He spent 43 years attending the Disciples of Christ Church in Ohio, where he served as an Elder. His commitment to his faith extended across various churches, including the First Christian Church in Chehalis, Washington, Northland Christian Church in Topeka, Kansas and most recently Bethel Community Church, where he contributed to the church's construction. In his later years, when mobility declined, he attended online at The Seed Church, which is located in Wichita, Kansas. His selfless service, wisdom and kindness continued to brighten the lives of those around him.

Jerry’s personality shone as brightly as his many accomplishments. He had a unique gift for making friends and maintaining those friendships throughout his life; it was said he never had an enemy. His calm demeanor and gentle spirit made him a cherished figure in all walks of life.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley Anderson, with whom he shared an incredible 70 years of marriage, they married on July 8, 1955, in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Jerry leaves behind two daughters, Lori (John) Heger and Becky (Dan) Smith, as well as grandchildren Corinne (Evan) Reinert, Steven (Erin) Heger, Tyler (Tatiana) Smith, and Kyle (Ally) Smith. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Camden, Adalie, Jameson, Emerson, Addie Jo, Carson, and Reed. He was an irreplaceable part, true mentor, and friend to his many nieces and nephews who loved and cherished his whit and many stories of the good ole days.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Edward Anderson and Fern Irene (Gemberling) Anderson, as well as his siblings, sister Mary Jean Gemberling and brother John Phillip Anderson.

Jerry E. Anderson will be remembered for his lifetime of service, unwavering love, and the joy he brought to all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will take place on November 13, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Bethel Community Church in Topeka, 6944 NW Landon Rd. Topeka, KS. His memory will live on in the hearts of all of us who had the privilege of knowing him.

Memorial contributions can be sent in his memory to Midland Care Hospice, 200 SW Frazier Circle, Topeka, KS 66606.