Jerry Booth

Donald Jerome Booth (Born; May 15, 1938)

Affectionately known to all as Jerry, dad, pops, gramps and grandpa. A gentle giant loved by all. Giving a smile to everyone who approached him, as well as a jokingly hard time to those he held closest to him. Donald Jerome Booth, 85, of Augusta, Georgia, died on February 14, 2024.

He was born in Jefferson, Iowa in 1938 to parents Robert and Ada, who gave him ten brothers and four sisters. While they may have struggled at times to house and feed fifteen children, there was never a lack of love and support. During their early years in San Diego, California, the war housing agency stepped in and provided two bungalows for the family.

Knocking down a wall or two to allow the family to occupy both homes. Being the fourth youngest of 15, he had many older brothers and sisters to help take him to school and all the sporting activities he was involved in. While some of his brothers played sports, his family realized early on that he had a special gift. Jerry graduated from Point Loma High School lettering in baseball, football and basketball as well as receiving the covenant “All-City” award.

His accomplishments did not go unnoticed as he received a full scholarship to San Diego State University. He had a promising career on a professional sports team, but experienced a freak accident breaking his elbow while he was a lifeguard at the local pool, ending his sports career. He quickly chose a new road to serve his country in the Army during the Vietnam war.

Jerry and his first wife couldn’t wait to start a family of their own and their children meant the world to them. He made sure that Kathy and Mike experienced the beauty of our country by visiting many national parks and making Utah their home for summer break. Teaching them to hike, fish and horseback ride. It should be no surprise that he coached Mike in little league and as a family built the first Tierrasanta Little League field. Where he also coached and managed many of the league’s all-star teams.

In 1986, he met the love of his life Judy, celebrating Cinco de Mayo. They soon found many common likes and a love for dance. Excited to start their new lives together, the two were married on May 2 nd, 1992. Jerry soon became a loving father to Judy’s six children, Andee, Teena, John, Janet, Leslee and David.

Jerry and Judy decided to put down roots in Augusta, Georgia in 1995. Where their home would become the heart of the family and host many holidays for years to come. He always took pride in decorating their home for Christmas each year and it was something everyone looked forward to. Everyone who knew Jerry knew how much he loved golf, Prospecting for gold and fishing but he also loved 3D puzzles. Anytime his grandkids came over they could expect that “gramps” latest puzzle project would spread across the dining table. They looked forward to seeing his finished masterpieces.

Known as a hardworking man, who could build and fix just about anything. He also had a passion for creating a beautiful, lush and bountiful garden. In fact, as soon as they moved to Augusta and bags were unpacked. The garden was plowed, seeded and ready for spring.

He was also a dedicated parishioner at St. Augustine Episcopal Church. Their church family and community has been one of the greatest gifts they have received since moving to the area.

Jerry will always be remembered for his warm heart, huge smile and would help anyone with anything at any time. We’ll always imagine hearing him say “Judith Ann, When’s dinner going to be ready? I’m staaaaaarvin” one more time. We couldn’t have asked for a better husband, dad and grandpa, and will miss Jerry every day. Jerry’s memory will live on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

Jerry is survived by his wife Judy; his two children Kathy and Mike; six step-children Andee,Teena, John, Janet, Leslee and David; thirteen grandchildren Kyle, Jackie, Brendon, Jordan, Mikayla, Amanda, John, Haley, Matt, Amber, Nick, Kylie, Colby and nine great-grandchildren Kolton, Kennedy, Harper, Andrew, Synamin, Jason, Ryan, Kenslee, and Virginia. Surviving siblings; Jean, Frank, Richard, Roger and Alan.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church and the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 P.M., at  the church.