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THE LIFE OFJERRY LEE VANCE, SR.
July 3, 1958 - Dec 6, 2025
FOREVER REMEMBERED - FOREVER MISSED.
Jerry Lee Vance, 67, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 6, 2025, in the Philippines, following a brave battle with health challenges. Born a fighter on July 3, 1958, in Hillsboro, Wisconsin, to George and Eva Vance, Jerry overcame significant health hurdles at birth, a resilience that would define his character for the rest of his life.
Jerry spent his formative years growing up in Minnesota with his three siblings. Along with his older brother, Jerry spent his teenage summers during high school, working harvest for relatives in South Dakota, where he developed the strong work ethic that guided him throughout his life.
He attended high school in Eveleth, MN through the 10th grade before moving to South Dakota to live with his maternal grandmother. Jerry graduated from Mellette High School in Mellette, South Dakota, in 1977. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving for three years. While stationed in the Philippines, he met his first wife, Libby. Following his honorable discharge, they settled in Redfield, South Dakota, where they welcomed two sons, John Paul and Jeffery Paul. After ten years of marriage, they later divorced.
Jerry eventually relocated to Arizona, where he worked for several years in an aluminum foundry before beginning a career in the pest control industry. After working for several companies, he went on to open his own business—an achievement that brought him tremendous pride. During this time, he met and married his second wife, Carmen. Together they had three sons: Jerry Jr., Curtis, and Christopher.
In 2006, they divorced. Jerry remained in Arizona, where he later met and married his third wife, Maribel, in 2008. They shared many wonderful years together. In 2024, Jerry sold his business and retired with Maribel to the Philippines.
In his final years, Jerry faced ongoing health challenges and ultimately succumbed to pulmonary edema and pneumonia. True to his lifelong strength, he passed peacefully in his sleep at the age of 67.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, George and Eva Vance. He is survived by his siblings, Ed, Janice, and Tricia; his stepbrother, Jeff; his five sons, John, Jeffery, Jerry Jr., Curtis, and Christopher; and his five grandchildren. He also leaves behind countless cousins, nieces, and nephews who loved him dearly.
Jerry will be remembered for his remarkable work ethic and his ability to embrace life fully. One of his favorite sayings was, “Work hard, play hard.” He had a generous spirit and a big heart. He loved music—especially playing his guitars— and often spent late nights watching movies or practicing new songs. He enjoyed fishing, shooting, gunsmithing, and playing Mario Kart and other games with his grandchildren. He made friends easily and had a gift for conversation that drew people in and made them feel at home.
Jerry will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
May he rest in Peace.
A CELEBRATION OF LIFE WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY APRIL 4TH
FROM NOON TO 5PM AT THE DOUBLE P RANCH
42617 183rd Street
Clark, SD 57225
BURIAL SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON
EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 5TH
FROM NOON TO 1PM AT THE MELLETTE CEMETARY
Spink County, South Dakota
WELCOME & INTRODUCTIONS
Ed Vance
EULOGY
Curtis Vance PRAYER
Janice Arvo, ORD