Jerry Wayne Tilson

Jerry Wayne Tilson - A helper on earth is now an angel in heaven.

Jerry Wayne Tilson, 72, passed away peacefully at home in Newton, Kansas, on June 22, 2026, with his wife and children by his side.

Jerry was born on October 22, 1953, in Arkansas City, Kansas, to Melvin and Vera (Gehring) Tilson. He was the youngest of three children and grew up in the Whitewater, Kansas area. He attended Whitewater Grade School and graduated from Remington High School in 1971. Following graduation, Jerry enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served his country.

After returning home from training, Jerry worked alongside his father at Mr. Steak until its closure. He later began a career in tooling at Boeing. Over the years, Jerry wore many hats—he also worked in real estate, owned and operated a daycare, and was known by many as a handyman who could fix just about anything. More than anything, Jerry was a helper by nature—always willing to lend a hand, share his knowledge, and show up for the people he loved.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Vera Tilson.

He is survived by his wife, Glenda Tilson; his siblings, Terry (Connie) Tilson and Judy (Tony) Frieze; and by his children, Scott (Amber) Rowland, Heather Weber, Callie (Seth) Glaves, Ashley Rowland, Alana (Isaac) McNary, and Jesse Tilson. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Jerry’s life was marked by hard work, service, and a willingness to help others. Though Parkinson’s disease brought many challenges, it never changed the heart of the man so many knew and loved. In the last several years of his life, Jerry was lovingly cared for at home by his wife, Glenda, whose unwavering devotion as his full-time caregiver gave him comfort, dignity, and a high quality of life. Her commitment was a true act of love and a reflection of the deep care she had for him. Jerry’s legacy lives on in the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the countless ways he showed up for others.