Published on July 4, 2026 8:50 am
Last Updated on July 4, 2026 8:57 am
Gerald “Jerry” Lee Aldridge, 83, of Herrick, Illinois, entered into heaven on July 3, 2026, at home surrounded by loved ones after a long battle with COPD.
Jerry was born on October 16, 1942, in Decatur, the son of Gerald L. and Alberta B. (Miller) Aldridge. He grew up in Decatur as one of three children and carried the values of his upbringing throughout his life. He graduated from Eisenhower High School in the class of 1960 and then embarked on a 30-year career as a truck driver with various Teamster Union truck lines, a profession he took pride in and one that suited his steady, hardworking character.
On May 27, 1991, Jerry married Shirley Stoneburner in Decatur, and together they shared more than 35 years of marriage. Their life together was built on love, companionship, and family, and Jerry treasured the years they spent side by side. He was a devoted husband who valued the home they made together and the many memories they created over the years.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Shirley of Herrick; his daughter, Janna (Dennis) Drew of Decatur; his son, Jerry (Amy) Aldridge of Shelbyville; and his grandchildren, Kristi (Erick) Rodriguez of Decatur, Matthew (Melissa) Drew of North Carolina, Zachary (Carly) Drew of Oreana, April (Blake) Strode of Decatur, Jerod (Brooklyn) Aldridge of Oakley, Andrew (Jenna) Aldridge of Shelbyville, and Joey Aldridge (Bailey) of Tower Hill. He is also survived by 14 great-grandchildren, his sister-in-law, Charlotte (Larry) Blickem of Cowden, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Helen (Gus) Gustin and Norma Jean (John) Daste; and his in-laws, Franklin and Fern (Tucker) Stoneburner.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Shelbyville with his grandson, Pastor Matthew Drew officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will follow in Mound Cemetery in rural Cowden. Family and friends are invited to share a story or light a candle at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.