Jerry Dean Gillette

Jerry Dean Gillette, 80, of Paw Paw, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 20, 2021 at his home in Paw Paw. Jerry’s family will receive guests from 5-7pm, Friday, September 24, 2021 at Newell Chapel, 83313 M51, Decatur. A celebration of life service will be held at 1pm, Saturday, September 25, 2021 at the funeral home. Interment will be held privately at a later date. Memorial contributions may be given to Bronson Cancer Center, 805 John St., Kalamazoo, MI 49001. Those wishing to leave an online condolence for the family may do so at www.newellchapel.com. Jerry was born at home in Decatur to Gillette G. and Mary (Zech) Gillette on March 17, 1941. After high school, Jerry joined the Army and served in the Vietnam War. Upon his return, he met and married Janice Merrill on April 23, 1965 in Niles. Jerry was a jack of all trades; never one to rest, he remained busy “tinkering” with anything and everything, but especially his tractors. Jerry also loved to garden, and spend time with his family. Jerry will be missed by his children, Theresa (James) McGuire, Steve (Kathy) Gillette, and Jerry (Sherri) Gillette; his grandchildren, Matthew (Elizabeth) McGuire, Shaun (Kristin) McGuire, Kayla Gillette, Cassandra (Felix) Minoso, Robert Gillette, Eric (Christine) Tobin, Amy (Andrew) Brock, Angela (Nicholas) Cook, and Ryan (Nicole) Peck; 15 great grandchildren; and his sisters, Donna Henley, and Vicky (Herb) Smith. He is preceded in death by his wife, Janice Gillette; his siblings, Irene Garrod, and Gene Gillette; and his parents.