Obituary for Jerry A. Messenger

            Jerry A. Messenger, age 59 of Forest, passed away on January 19, 2024 surrounded by family at Bridge Hospice Care Center, Findlay. 

            He was born on June 30, 1964 in Kenton to Wayne N. and Carol L. (McKinniss) Messenger.  His father is deceased and his mother survives in Forest.  Jerry married Julia A. Elwood on December 16, 1989 and she survives in rural Forest. He is also survived by his daughter Megan (Chuck) Byers, Forest, sister Angela (Jon) Wells, Mt. Blanchard, grandchildren Caley Byers, Avery Byers, Kellen Holland, Kaylynne Creamer, Madilyn Messenger, Maralyn Messenger, and Hadlee Byers, nieces and nephews Justin Wells (Logan), Allysha Beck (Dylan), Philip Messenger, and Hunter Messenger.  Jerry is preceded in death by his father Wayne N. Messenger, grandparents Calvin and Nellie (Rapp) Messenger, and Darrell and Maude (Erwin) McKinniss, and brother Anthony “Tony” Messenger. 

            Jerry was a 1982 graduate of Riverdale High School.  He worked for the Hardin County Engineer’s Garage for 17 years, and was a Jackson Township Trustee.  Jerry was a member and secretary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Kenton Lodge 2163, and member of Forest VFW 1182.   He enjoyed fishing, NASCAR, OSU Football, Pittsburgh Steelers, and playing corn hole.  Jerry also enjoyed camping especially at Marblehead Surf Campground where he loved spending time with his Lake Erie family. 

            A funeral service will be held Tuesday January 23, 2024 at 11:00am at Clark Shields Funeral Home with Pastor Ken Gray officiating.  Burial will follow at Hueston Cemetery, Forest.  A visitation will be held Monday January 22, 2024 from 2:00 – 8:00pm at Clark Shields Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers or memorial gifts please donate to Not By Choice of Kenton, Oncology Fund at Wyandot Memorial Hospital, Bridge Home Health and Hospice, or to the charity of the donor’s choice, in care of Clark Shields Funeral Home 301 S. Patterson St. Forest, OH 45843.  This would be Jerry’s request to give back to those places that gave to him.  To extend a condolence or share a memory visit www.shieldsfh.com.