Obituary of Jerald "Jerry" Wade Pillow
Age 72, of Clio, formerly of Mt. Morris, died Wednesday, May 16, 2018, at McLaren - Flint. A Celebration of Jerry’s Life will take place 4:00 pm, Sunday, May 20, 2018, at Martin Funeral, Cremation and Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Jerry’s son, Gary Pillow, and his grandson, Travis Pillow, will officiate. Cremation will follow. Jerry’s family will be present to receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday from 11:00 am until the time of service at 4:00 pm. Those desiring may direct memorial contributions to the Humane Society of Genesee County or St. Mary Catholic Church of Mt. Morris. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
Jerry was born November 7, 1945, in Flint, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Milborne and Cline (West) Pillow. Educated locally, Jerry graduated from Mt. Morris High School with the Class of 1964. In 1969, he began his career in law enforcement serving the City of Mt Morris until he retired in 1995, starting as a reserve officer and moving through the ranks, ultimately serving as assistant chief of police for a period, retiring as a lieutenant. After his retirement, Jerry would dedicate his time to the Humane Society of Genesee County, serving as their Cruelty Investigator for seven years. On January 22, 1991, he and Linda (Clontz) were united in marriage in Spartanburg, South Carolina. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Mt. Morris. Jerry previously had raced at Auto City Speedway, enjoyed riding his Harley, and restoring vintage cars. In addition to serving his community for many years, Jerry could be found playing the guitar with his band “The Country Express,” and most recently he enjoyed entertaining at the Krapohl Senior Center, taking care of his yard, and spending time with his dog, Bogey. His camaraderie with those at the Pierson Rd. YMCA and at McDonald’s in Mt. Morris will be greatly missed as will his sense of humor and friendship.
Left to cherish his memory are: his wife of 27 years, Linda Pillow; two sons: Scott and wife, Robin Pillow and Gary and wife, Kimberly Pillow; daughter, Amy Gunn; eight grandchildren: Garrett and wife, Kara Pillow, Jacob Gamino, Amanda Pillow, Allison Pillow, Derec and wife, Samantha Pillow, Tevin and wife, Elizabeth Pillow, Travis and wife, Mary Pillow, Alyssa and husband, Cory Counts; seven great-grandchildren: sister, Patricia and husband, Daniel Chromie; father-in-law, Howard Clontz; mother-in-law, Opal Clontz; aunt, Catherine Pillow; special friends, Michael and Norma Slattery and several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and daughter-in-law, Sandra Pillow.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at McLaren CCU, especially, Mindy, for the care and compassion shown to them.
Friends may share a memory with the family at the funeral home or online at www.martinfuneralhome.com.