JERALD ‘JERRY’ LANIER BOOTH

Jerry was born in 1952 in Bellaire, Ohio, the son of the late Riley “Bud” Booth, Audrey Houston Strahl, and stepfather Wilmer “Spooks” Strahl. He was preceded in death by his wife of thirty-six years, Sandy DeLong Booth, who was his high school sweetheart. He is survived by his three brothers: Jeff Booth (Linda) of Amarillo, Texas; Brian Booth (Wendy) of Martins Ferry, Ohio; and Eric Booth (Patty) of Bellaire, Ohio.

He also leaves behind his three children: Scott Booth (Lacy), Craig Booth (Amy), and Kelly Booth Hoepfner (Jeff). His grandchildren include Megan Booth Howell (Eric), Riley Hoepfner, Joe Hoepfner (Elly), Julie Hoepfner, Nathan Booth, and Dylan Booth. He was also blessed with a new great-grandchild, Carter Howell. He was incredibly proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Jerry also held a special place in his heart for Vanessa Shaw, whom he lovingly considered a step-daughter. He also leaves behind several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.

Jerry was many things to many people and lived a full life–though for those who loved him, it was not nearly long enough. He was a respected businessman and, alongside his longtime partner Lynn Steele, proudly owned and operated J&L Auto Body for decades. Jerry was a past president, treasurer, and lifelong member of the Neffs Rod & Gun Club; a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post #77 in Neffs, Ohio; a member of Lafferty Moose Lodge #1462; a member of VFW Post 5356; a member of the Sons of Italy; and a member of the Hazelwood Hills Boat Club in Piedmont, Ohio. Through the years, Jerry also remained close with his BHS Class of 1970 and enjoyed getting together with his former classmates often. Wherever Jerry went, he made friends, and those who met him quickly felt as though they had known him for years.

Near the end of his life, Jerry gave his family great peace by sharing that he had accepted Christ as his Savior. We find comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his late wife Sandy, at peace in the presence of his Lord, and that one day we will see him again.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the First Methodist Church of Bellaire, Ohio, officiated by Jerry’s brother, Jeff Booth, and grandson Joe Hoepfner.