Jerry Bernard Graves

Jerry Bernard Graves, age 71, of Chappell, NE, formerly of Palisade, NE passed away on Thursday, July 5, 2018 at the University of Colorado Hospital in Aurora, CO.

Jerry was born June 1, 1947 in McCook, NE to parents Bernard and Pansy G. (Dimick) Graves.  He attended school in Wauneta, graduating with the class of 1966.  Jerry then went on to attend Kearney State Teaching College where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1971.

On August 18, 1968, Jerry married the love of his life, Beverly Jean (Polly) Graves.  The couple made their home in Palisade and were the proud parents of two daughters, Heather and Hillary.  Jerry taught high school industrial arts for over thirty years in various districts, some of which include Wauneta, Palisade and Chappell.  Jerry also assisted with coaching football and helped in many other capacities at numerous events throughout his teaching career. After retiring from teaching Jerry worked as a state licensing examiner based out of Sidney, NE.

During the summer months, when Jerry wasn’t teaching, he owned his own business, “Weather All Coatings” using Conklin products for roof repairs and house painting. Following his retirement from working as a license examiner, Jerry worked as a substitute contract US Postal Service mail carrier in Chappell.  He was a member of the Palisade United Methodist Church and the Assembly of God Church in Chappell.

Jerry had a strong sense of community and enjoyed volunteering as both an EMT and Volunteer Fireman in Palisade.  He was also the former Mayor of Palisade, past Palisade Fire Chief and served several terms on the Palisade Village Board and Palisade Public School Board. He enjoyed working with his hands, both wood working and artistic painting. He also enjoyed spending time traveling with Beverly through the Rocky Mountains, deep sea fishing in Alaska and nature exploring in Tennessee with children and grandchildren.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Pansy Graves.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Beverly Graves, of Chappell; two daughters, Heather (Dan) Simants of Fairbanks, AK and Hillary (Simeon) Jackson of Kingsport, TN; three grandchildren, Joshua Simants and Judah and Shiloh Jackson; as well as a host of friends. Jerry was a wonderful provider, loving husband and father. We will miss his winks and compassionate and caring ways.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 13, 2018 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home in McCook, NE with family present to greet friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, July 14, 2018 at the Palisade United Methodist Church, beginning at 10:00 AM, with Pastor Kevin Jacobs, officiating.

Burial will follow the funeral service in the Palisade Cemetery.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Palisade Volunteer Fire Department, 109 South Main, Palisade, NE 69040.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook has been entrusted with the arrangements.