of Little Rock, AR
July 18, 1938 - March 29, 2015
Gerald ''Jerry'' Marshel Giffin, 76, of Little Rock left this Earth for Heaven on Sunday, March 29, 2015. He was born in Wichita, Kansas July 18, 1938 to the late Leon and Theta Warren Giffin.
Jerry spent his working years as a salesman, and he was a very successful salesman! He won many awards during his time with The Kirby Company, including Salesman of the Year from Sales and Marketing Executives Organization in 1962 and Top Third Distributor in the United States in 1974. Jerry left the Kirby Co. in 1983 and went into the investment banking business; first at Swink & Co, and then with Calton & Associates as a partner. He was a member of St. James United Methodist Church in Little Rock.
His grandson Jacob described Grandpa as being remembered as a man of character and humor and probably the best grandfather anyone could ask for! He cracked jokes and made everyone laugh. He prided himself in being so funny. One thing he taught his grandchildren was that ''knowledge is power,'' so he encouraged them to never stop educating themselves. He taught them business tips, and the favorite of at least one grandchild was ''treat everyone or anyone you meet like they are the most important person in the world because to them, they are.''
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Camilla Haynes; and brothers, Joe and Jim Giffin. Those remaining to cherish their time with him include his wife of 57 years, Darlene; son, Todd Giffin (Debbie) of Bryant; daughter, Lisa Nichols of Little Rock; eight grandchildren: Jerrod, Dustin, Noelle, Emily, Brandon, Jacob, Colton, and Katelyn; nieces; nephews; and many friends.
He will be honored at a memorial service at 1:00 P.M., Thursday, April 2, 2015 at St. James United Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock, AR 72212, (501)217-6700. The family will receive friends from 6 8 P.M., Wednesday, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, AR 72211, (501)224-8300.
Memorial donations may be made in his name to The Cammy Giffin Haynes Nursing Scholarship Fund, UAMS, 4301 W. Markham Street, Little Rock, AR 72205.
Other famous quotations by the ''Latest and Greatest Jerry Giffin'' include:
• ''The wishbone will not replace the backbone''
• ''If it is to be, it's up to me.''
• ''Without me… I'm nothing.''
darlene, sorry to hear about jerry . just wanted to let you know i was thinking about you and the family,and praying for you all. jerry was a good man and a great friend .had many fun times with him and many laughs. God will help you through the valleys and will always be their to listen to your petitions. One thing for sure they are all fishing and having fun together. Many fish storys are being told. We love you all.
So blessed to have fond memories of the Giffin family! My prayers for God's comfort to you, Darlene, Todd, Lisa & your families.
Darlene and Family,
I am so very sorry to learn of Jerry's passing. He is truly an unforgettable man, and will be missed by all who knew him.
Your family is very special to me. You are all in my prayers.
Karen Lowery
Robinson High School
Darlene and Family, my sympathy and you are in my prayers.
Dear Family, Just wanted to send out hugs and kisses to you all. I am out of state through Saturday or I would be with you tonight (WEDNESDAY) and tomorrow. Jerry was "The Man"! SO much fun to be around. Well...you all are! I know there will never be another. I want to thank him for the memories I have of him and your family. Happy times indeed! I miss him and all of you. Warmest thoughts of love sent your way with much love.
Kim Cargile Alexander
My thoughts and prayers going out to you all. Love you
Todd, Debbie and family, always enjoyed hearing Jerry's jokes and stories! Your family and Darlene are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless. Brian, Bridgett and the boys.
So sorry for your loss. Jerry was one of a kind who will be greatly missed
.
Aunt Darlene, I was one of those people that learned a lot from Uncle Jerry. I think I got my warped sense of humor from the best. I still remember you, Jerry, Theda, my mom, dad and me sitting in your den after Cammy's wedding. Jerry made one of his shock value jokes to see what kind of reaction he would get. I actually had a comeback for him. I think it was the only time I ever saw him speechless. We all had tears running down our cheeks from laughing so hard because the look on his face was priceless!! I will miss him.
Darlene, Todd, Lisa, and all the grandkids- Jerry was one fantastic guy! The trips to Beaver, listening to him and Jim , were about as good as it gets. He'll be missed! Thoughts and prayers with you all
My prayers & condolences going out for all the family.
So sorry for your loss will keep you all in my prayers
T;HINKING OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, DARLENE-OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU,BOB & PAT
Our deepest sympathy to Darlene and the entire Giffin family. Carol worked with Jerry for many years at McKay & Company realtors. He was truly a great friend and associate.
Darlene,
Although I haven't seen you all in many years, I remember how Jerry was such a neat and funny guy and the neighborhood clown. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Suzanne Coulter
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with the family.
Janis Scott
Robinson High School
To one of the best fisherman in the world! RIP my friend and ketch big Striper in heaven. Prayers and condolences to Darlene and Family!
Todd, Debbie and family ,
I am so sorry to of the passing of your Dad, I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers