Memorial

Jerry L. DeFord, 81, of Cedar Rapids passed away on Monday, October 2, 2017 at St. Luke’s Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M at the Hope Lutheran Church with Pastor Daniel Clark-Bridges officiating on Saturday, October 7, 2017. Visitation will take place from 4 to 7 P.M. at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home on Friday, October 6, 2017. A visitation will also be an hour prior to services on Saturday at the church. Burial will take place at Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery. 

Surviving are his children, Dennis (Robin) DeFord, David DeFord, and Daniel DeFord. Grandchildren Kylie (Jeremy Edmonds), Dillon, Alexander Minor, Andrew, Thomas, Shelbie (Cory) Witham. Sister Penny Wilcox, and brother Robert DeFord. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Donna, brothers Charles, Henry, sisters Donna, and Mary.  

Jerry was born on March 3, 1936; the son of Charles and Erma (Dixon) DeFord. He was united in marriage to Donna M. Orman on December 26, 1958 in Ottumwa. Jerry and Donna enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. together. He found the greatest joy in spending time with his grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.   

Memorial contributions in Jerry’s honor may be made to Hope Lutheran Church.