Jerry Lee Spaulding

Jerry Lee Spaulding, age 80 of Jefferson, passed away on March 10, 2026, just ten days shy of his 81st birthday. A lifelong Greene County resident and proud Navy veteran, Jerry was a man of the road, the sea, and the soil—a builder of bridges and a steadfast friend to all who knew him.

Born on March 20, 1945, to James and Nadine Spaulding, Jerry grew up in and around Scranton, Iowa, as one of thirteen children. He was the last surviving member of his original family, carrying the history and heart of the Spaulding siblings with him throughout his life. A graduate of Scranton High School, he served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War as a Boilerman aboard the USS Carter Hall. After his honorable discharge, he worked as a truck driver before returning to Greene County, where he met and married the love of his life, Ruth Wistenberg.

Jerry began his career in construction as a foreman for Shriver Construction, then joined the Greene County Secondary Road Department so he could be home to help raise his daughter, Dawn. He advanced to Bridge Foreman and Maintenance Superintendent, developing many of the procedures still used by the county today. Known for his direct honesty, sharp wit, and strong work ethic, he continued assisting with county projects even after retirement, often helping until just days before his passing.

Jerry loved the outdoors and embraced life fully through fishing, hunting, camping, golfing, snowmobiling, and motorcycling. A dedicated NASCAR fan loyal to Chevrolet, he was a tireless advocate for fellow veterans and served on the Greene County Veterans Commission. He cherished his Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., and proudly flew the flag at his home.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; his daughter, Dawn; granddaughters Hunter and Ashton; great-grandchildren Hayzelle and Colter; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Mary, his parents, and his twelve siblings: Bill, Eva Mae, Iola, Lavola, Jim, Roseanne, Maude, Mary Lou, Norman, Frank, Janet, and Dwight Cris.