of Jonesboro, AR

May 29, 1950 - January 31, 2026

Gerald ''Jerry'' Lynn Otwell, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, was born on May 29, 1950, in Lamartine, Arkansas, to Watson Otwell and Mary Otwell Mitchell. He passed away on January 31, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and unwavering kindness.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved sons, Jason, who lived for 10 precious days, and Monty, who passed at the age of 55; his sister, Helen Sutton; two brothers-in-law; and two nephews.

He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Jan Nix Murphy Otwell, of Jonesboro; step-sons, Chad (Stephanie) Murphy of Lyons, Kansas, Brad (Angela) Murphy of Jonesboro, and Dustin (April) Murphy of Jonesboro; his daughter-in-law, Linda Otwell of Huntsville, Arkansas; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sister Dorthy Wreyford of Shreveport, Louisiana; nephews, Brian Wreyford of Shreveport and Jeff Wreyford of Nashville, Tennessee; and a niece, Cindy Henry of Houston, Texas.

Jerry retired from poultry farming in Stamps, Arkansas, after years of hard work and dedication. He was an avid deer hunter who cherished time spent outdoors, but his greatest passion was serving the Lord. A faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Jerry lived his faith daily, whether teaching a Bible class, giving a devotional, or lending a helping hand through the church food pantry. His servant's heart and steady presence touched many lives.

Funeral services will be 3 pm Friday, February 6, 2026, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church at 3625 AR 141 S, Paragould, AR with Brother Dale Davis officiating, and Jerry's step-son, Dustin Murphy, reading of the obituary. Burial will be private.

Friends and family may visit from 2 pm until the time of services.

Pallbearers will be Zack Murphy, Owen Murphy, Payton Murphy, Butch Grimmett, Larry Deitrick, Steve Nix, and honorary pallbearers, Alton Tutt and David Rook.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Jerry's memory to the ALS Association at als.org.

The family would like to thank the staff at Quail Run Health and Rehab in Trumann, AR. Jerry will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love for family, and his quiet devotion to serving others. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Arrangements are under the care of Roller-Farmers Union Funeral Home of Jonesboro.

 

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