Jerry Ray “Gus” Meridith, 82, of Fayetteville, Tennessee, passed away Saturday, July 1, 2023.

A memorial service was held Wednesday, July 5, 2023, at Higgins Funeral Home with the Rev. Tommy Vann and the Rev. Ann Hatcher officiating.

Gus was born on March 4, 1941, to Thomas and Goldie Meridith in Trumann, Arkansas. He found his calling in the United States Army, proudly serving for more than two decades as an enlisted soldier, warrant officer, and finally a commissioned officer. During that time, he commanded troops across the globe, including in the Vietnam War where he earned the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster for valor in combat. Gus retired from the Army as a major in 1984 and went to work as a Department of Defense contractor, where he helped to develop missile defense systems as a program manager and engineer.

In 2012, he married Janice Towry, gaining her son Chris as another son, a great friend, and a comfort to him through the years. One of Gus’ greatest achievements was becoming a grandfather or “Opa.” He enjoyed fishing, spending time, and sharing his sense of humor with them.

Gus is survived by his wife of 10 years, Janice Towry Meridith and her son, Chris; sons, Michael (Tanya) and Marc (Tania) Meridith; grandchildren, Emersyn and Christian Meridith; and sister, Dianne Sanders. Gus was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Goldie; his first wife, Gisela Greinert; brothers, Charles and Tommy; and sisters, Shirley, Pauline, and June.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Fayetteville Humane Society or the Fayetteville First United Methodist Church.

Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving [Gus] Jerry Ray Meridith.