Jerry Gaulden

The Richmond News, Nov. 22, 2024

Gerald Lee “Jerry” Gaulden, 55, of Richmond passed away Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family, after a hardfought battle with cancer.

Jerry was born Sept. 12, 1969, in Independence, the son of Gerald Dean and Georgia Lee (Reichling) Gaulden.

He was united in marriage to Beverly Jean Walls of Richmond on July 1, 2000. She preceded him in death on Sept. 17, 2022.

Survivors include his son, Gerald Gaulden Jr. of Gladstone; and four daughters, Christina (Todd) Brison of Versailles, Rebecah Desselle of New Port Richey, Fla., Maranda (Tony) O’Dell of Higginsville and Ashley Hancock of Blue Springs.

Other survivors include 13 grandchildren: Alex (Miranda) Stuart, Alexis (Scott) Stuart, Tyler Brison, Jacob (Tabitha) Taber, Damien (Rachel) Loyd, Jaedon Willard, Klaira Miller, Killian Miller, Kiley Gaulden, Lincoln Gaulden, Adalynn Coggins, Mercedes Coggins and Caden Coggins; and four great-grandchildren: Braxton Creeden, Alex Loyd, Carter Taber and Aliyah Coggins, with one on the way.

His brother, Bert Mace of Richmond; five sisters, Gail Watson of Orrick, Susie Earl of Gladstone, Beth True of Gladstone, Lori Mace of Northmoor and Crystal Mace of Clarksville, Tenn.; and numerous stepbrothers also survive.

In addition to his parents and wife, Jerry was preceded in death by his sister, Iva Elliott.

Jerry was raised and educated in Richmond, graduating in 1987 from Richmond High School.

A talented, respected heavy machinery mechanic, Jerry dedicated his life to working with machinery and engines, a gift he was widely known for. His exceptional ability to diagnose issues just by listening to a motor earned him the admiration of many. Jerry was always ready to lend a hand, often helping family and friends with car repairs and sharing his mechanical genius with anyone in need.

He worked for Larry Brown Excavating in Liberty and Waller Trucking Co. in Henrietta, leaving a legacy of hard work and skill.

Known for his generous spirit, Jerry would give the shirt off his back to help someone. He also was a practical joker who loved making people laugh with his playful tricks, such as reminding folks to “change their blinker fluid.”

He enjoyed spending time at the lake, fishing, sharing Bud Lights and hosting fish fries with his family, creating cherished memories that will be treasured by those who loved him. The light of his life was his family, and his light will continue to shine through them.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Children’s Mercy Hospital. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be held at a later date. Time and date to be announced on the Thurman Funeral Home website. Thruman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of the arrangements.

Please share your memories of Jerry with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com