Jerry Lauderdale

William Jerry Lauderdale, “Jerry”, 78, of Cleveland, passed away Sunday November 1, 2020 at Turkey Creek Hospital in Knoxville holding his granddaughters’ hand.
He was born November 4, 1941 and died three days before his 79th birthday. He lived most of his early life in Charleston, Tennessee, graduating from Charleston High School in 1959, Where he was a member of the basketball team.
He was always interested in business ventures from his days of delivering newspapers on his bicycle, to being owner of Jerry’s TV and appliances for over 40 years. His inclination towards electronics was peaked by working with his stepfather, John Cox, at Phillips TV which became Cox Radio and TV, and later Jerry’s tv and appliances. His training and studies earned him a master technician and Repairman classification.
He was one of the first drag car racing enthusiasts in this area accumulating numerous trophies and awards, that was until his mother discovered them in the trunk of his car! He loved collecting coins, playing Rook, trips to Florida, and interesting antique gadgets. Perhaps, his greatest joy was his boats – and being on the river or lake with family and friends.
Another great pleasure was coaching his Jerry’s independent basketball team featuring Ed Coates, Jim Traylor, Lomas Swafford, Glenn Seals, Birdman Birmingham, Hugh Watson, Bozo Rueener, Levi Scott, Tom Wheeler, Jerry McNabb, and many other talented players! They remain undefeated locally.
Jerry was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ernest and Minnie Kirksey Taylor of Charleston,Tennessee; parents Minnie “Opal” Taylor Lauderdale Cox and William “Bill” Lauderdale.
He is survived by his son, Will Lauderdale; granddaughter, and the absolute light of his life Sarah Lauderdale; Two great grandchildren, Grayson Dale, and Harlan Grady; Three loving sisters, Sylvia Lauderdale (Edward) Coates of Cleveland, Linda Lauderdale (Jerry) McNabb of Jasper, and Kim Cox (Rick) Lowe of Nashville; One brother, Sammy (Brenda) Lauderdale of Cleveland; loving step father, John Cox; nieces, Angela (Paul) Burt, Celia (Chris) Lee, Bronwen, and Noah; nephews and nieces, Tab (Sarah) McNabb, Hatch, Madison McNabb, Tanner(Lindsay) Coates, Jackson, Presley, Eddie (Angela) Coates, Cash, Cael; and several special cousins survive as well.

The Family will receive friends 3:00 pm – 4:00pm Saturday November 7, 2020 at Companion Funeral Cleveland Chapel following Covid procedures. Followed by a private family graveside service at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Your encouraged to share a memory and/or your personal condolences with his family by visiting his memorial webpage and guestbook at www.companionfunerals.com Companion Funeral Home, Cleveland Chapel is honored to assist Mr. Lauderdale’s family with the arrangements.