Reverend Gerald "Jerry" R. Pettit, 78, of Jefferson, Iowa passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, February 14, 2020. Gerald was born on July 27, 1941 in Ottumwa, Iowa to Royce A. and Enid I. (Bradshaw) Pettit. Memorial services will be held at a later date. A private family burial will be held in the Ottumwa Cemetery.

Gerald married Barbara Jean Cubbage on May 28, 1960. They had two children Karen "Sue" and Darrell Pettit. Gerald worked several jobs over his lifetime. He was a civil engineer for the state of Iowa, a salesman for Payless Cashways Lumber, and a truck driver for several years. But the career of his life was that of a Minister with the Open Bible Standard Churches. When you met Gerald you knew immediately that he was anointed. Jesus and the Holy Spirit were with him always. Gerald enjoyed golfing, fishing, video games, and television but his mission in life was to bring people to Christ.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, and sister.

He is survived by his wife Barbara, children Karen "Sue" Ripley, and Darrell (Karen) Pettit; grandchildren Mark, Seraphina, Evan, and Reuben; and great-grandson Royce.

Celebrate Life Iowa has been entrusted with Gerald's cremation care.