Jerry L. Harrod, 80, of Botkins, OH passed away Thursday afternoon, September 22, 2016 at his home with his family by his side.

Jerry was born on December 29, 1935 in Sidney, OH to the late Homer and Celia Elliott Harrod. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Betty L. Briggs Harrod, three brothers, Fredrick “Bus”, Max, and Jacque, and two nephews, Randy and Larry.

On April 20, 1963, he married the former Carolyn Stites in South Vienna, OH and she survives along with three children, Pamela (Dave) Steinke of Anna, OH, Mark Harrod and Neil (Anne) Harrod, both of Sidney, seven grandchildren, Tracey (Brian), Ryan, Elliott, Carley, Jay (Libby), Kenlee, and Katheryn, two great grandchildren, Adriana, and Caelynn, a brother, Marlen Harrod of Sidney, and nieces and nephews, Barbie, Sandy, Dana, Suzy and Vickie.

Jerry was a Staff Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, which he joined to serve his country. His commitment to serving others continued throughout his life as he was very active in many organizations in Botkins and Shelby County. Jerry’s career was in sales working as a district manager selling industrial and institutional chemicals. In 1989, Jerry and his wife, Carolyn, opened Harrod Memorials selling monuments in Shelby and surrounding counties. Other than his family, his main love was music. He enjoyed attending concerts, programs and gatherings whenever possible. He also loved to attend Special Olympics basketball games. Jerry was also a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Botkins.

Pastor Charla Grieves will begin funeral services at 10:00 am, Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Visitation is Monday, September 26th from 4-8 pm and one hour prior to services Tuesday, all at the church. Burial is in Loramie Valley Cemetery, Botkins, with military honors provided by the United States Marine Corps and Veterans Elite Tribute Squad.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution may be given in Jerry’s name to St. Paul Lutheran Church, and for people to perform unexpected acts of kindness to others.

Arrangements are in the care of Shoffstall Funeral Home, Lakeview. Condolences may be expressed at shoffstallfuneralhome.com.