Gerald "Jerry" Lee Martin Jr., 76, passed away Sunday, June 20 2021 in Springfield, Missouri surrounded by family.  He was born on Friday, September 28, 1945 to Charlene Joanne Weldon & Gerald Lee Martin Sr. in Raytown, Missouri.  Jerry was the oldest of four children, David Martin, Charlene Stine, and Patty Williams.

He worked hard all his life serving his country and his family.  Jerry enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 18, where he served with lifelong friend and brother-in-law Leroy Stine, in the Vietnam War. Jerry returned to Missouri to become a Police Officer in Kansas City for the next 10 years.  During those 10 years he met and married the love of his life, Janet Sue Chambers.  They spent the next 30 years together until Janet passed away on October 10, 2006. Jerry cherished his family and loved to tell stories from his childhood.  His favorites were of him and Leroy and their prankster ways.  It was always in good fun, but most people knew they were up to no good.  Jerry embraced life and never complained, no matter how tough life got.  His battle with serious medical issues in recent years showed his courage in facing life challenges with a smile.  His positive attitude and laughter was contagious to everyone around him. Jerry was a handyman and was always willing to lend a helping hand.  He enjoyed reading, woodworking, traveling, history museums, air shows, fishing and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jerry was preceded in death by both paternal and maternal grandparents, his father Gerald L. Martin Sr., one son Michael and his loving wife of 31 years, Janet.

Jerry is survived by and was a loving father to four children Wendi (husband Craig) of Simi Valley, California, Gerald Lee Steele of Kansas City, Missouri, Steve (wife Karen) of Springfield, Missouri and Keith Martin (wife Amanda) of Springfield, Missouri, his mother Joann Martin, one brother David, two sisters Charlene and Patti, 12 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and numerous nieces, nephews, friend and family. He was loved by many and will be missed by many more.

A visitation for Jerry will be held from 1-2 P.M. on Saturday, June 26, 2021 at the Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at Rivermonte, 4500 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield, Missouri 65804 with funeral services and full military honors to follow at 2 P.M. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in his name to a Veteran association of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.klingnerfuneralhome.com