1950-2026
Jerry Elerby was born on December 1, 1950, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, to the late Ella Mae and John Williams. From the very beginning, Jerry possessed a kind and gentle spirit that would become the hallmark of his life. Blessed with a warm smile and an infectious personality, he brought joy to everyone fortunate enough to know him. As a young boy, he was adventurous, energetic, and mischievous in all the ways that made childhood memorable.
He attended Townsend Park Elementary, Junior High, and High School, where he excelled academically and athletically. He often shared stories of his youth, especially the time he broke his leg during his very first football game, a story he never grew tired of telling family and friends.
Following high school, Jerry enrolled at Arkansas AM&N College, now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), where he majored in Business Administration with a minor in accounting. During his college years, he quickly became known as “Mr. Esquire” because of his impeccable style and charismatic personality. During the summers, he worked at his cousin’s men’s clothing store in Las Vegas, Nevada, returning to campus each fall sporting the latest fashions. Known for his sharp appearance, stylish hats, and bell-bottom pants, Jerry earned recognition as one of the best-dressed men on campus.
Jerry was a proud member of the Tau Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and his love for the fraternity remained unwavering throughout his life. He treasured the bonds of brotherhood and remained active in fraternity affairs for many years. Jerry was also a devoted member of Saint Mark Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he faithfully served in various capacities and ministries.
Upon graduating from college, Jerry began his professional career at Simmons National Bank in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. As one of the first African American men employed by the institution, he helped pave the way for others through his determination, professionalism, and trailblazing spirit. His friendly demeanor, outgoing personality, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life made him highly respected and successful throughout his banking career.
After retiring from Simmons National Bank, Jerry continued serving others through his work at Kroger in Little Rock, Arkansas. True to his nature, he quickly became known as a dependable and hardworking employee. Coworkers often remarked, “Jerry helped all of us out.” He took tremendous pride in his work and considered Kroger his second home.
Jerry was a devoted father and grandfather. He leaves behind his beloved children: Tarrah Elerby and J’Avonnlon Burns (Juan), both of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; Kortney Allen (Daniel) of Little Rock, Arkansas; and DJ Hinton (Tabatha) of White Hall, Arkansas. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Jarrell Burns, Ja’Rial Burns, Tyrah Elerby, Car’Riea Collins, Vera Elerby, Korbin Hinton, Kendrick Hinton, Oliver Allen, Kaylee Allen, Rylee Allen, and Will Allen, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.
His children and grandchildren were the pride of his life. Whatever they needed, Jerry did his very best to provide. His love for his family was unwavering, and that love was returned many times over.
He also leaves to cherish his memory his siblings: Fannie Elerby Cunningham (Lee Roy) of Humble, Texas; Tommy Elerby (Mary Ann); John Williams (Sheila) of Conroe, Texas; Roland Williams of Las Vegas, Nevada; and Donell Williams of Pine Bluff, Arkansas; along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends and his longtime special friend, Rebecca “Becky” Adams.
Family was at the center of Jerry’s life. He deeply loved his brothers and sisters and was always willing to lend a helping hand whenever one was needed. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Ann Elerby Campbell, his son-in-law, Juan Stephen Burns.
Jerry was truly a jack-of-all-trades, possessing a remarkable ability to fix, build, organize, and improve almost anything he touched. He was rarely still. If he wasn’t working, he was painting a wall, cutting grass, organizing shelves, or tackling a new project around the house.
Above all else, Jerry was a giver. Helping people was not simply something he did—it was who he was. Whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or a selfless act of service, Jerry made a difference in the lives of countless people. His cheerful disposition, generous heart, and genuine love for others left an unforgettable impact on everyone he encountered.
One of Jerry’s guiding principles in life was simple: to do something good for someone every day. He lived that belief wholeheartedly. His legacy of kindness, service, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain a source of comfort, inspiration, and love to his family, friends, fraternity brothers, church family, and all whose lives he touched.
Funeral service will be 10:30 AM Saturday July 11, 2026, at Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM until the start of service at Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, Arkansas.
Obituary submitted by the family.
