Gerald "Jerry" Pleasant York

Gerald 'Jerry' Pleasant York was born in Kearney, Nebraska on July 17,1933. As a young boy, Jerry developed a strong work ethic. He got his first job at the age of eleven, as a paper boy. He was peddling newspapers on the sidewalk for VE Day and VJ day to mark the end of World War II. He was very involved in high school sports. He was the State Boxing Champion in his senior year.

Jerry joined the Navy as soon as he graduated from Kearney High School in 1951. He was seventeen years old. While in the Navy, he married Annette Jeffords, and they had one daughter, Deborah Ann York. Jerry served his country proudly as an aircraft mechanic. He then worked with Land Air and traveled from military base to military base, modifying World War II aircraft. Jerry also worked with the Space Program at both NASA's Michoud Facility and at Stennis Space Center. He worked on the Apollo and Space Shuttle Programs. Later, he worked at Indal Aluminum.

Jerry married the love of his life, Cheryl Harshbarger, in 1973 and adopted her young son, Jeff. As a couple, they loved to travel and to go camping. They also spent many years as volunteers with Special Olympics. Jerry and Cheryl were pleased to host in their home two foreign exchange students from Sweden in their home, and these young people became lifelong friends. Jerry was involved with the first Cruisin' the Coast event and loved his 1954 Chevy and his 1956 Packard. In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking and became the fix-it man for his family and friends. Jerry was the anchor of his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren adored him. He had a quiet, caring personality that endeared him to his many friends. He lived up to his middle name, 'Pleasant'. He was a pleasant man who was loved by all who knew him. He will be so missed. Jerry went home to God on February 28, 2026, at 6:12 a.m. He died at home surrounded by his wife and his children. As we say goodbye to our beloved Jerry, we are reminded of this scripture.

2 Timothy 4:7

I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.

Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Dennis Pleasant York and Frances Marie Fife York.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl York, his daughter, Deborah York Cantrell (Stephen), his son, Jeffery York (Tish), his brother, Ron York, his sisters Phyllis York Svoboda (Charles), and Karen York Garrelts. He is also survived by five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Please join us for Jerry's celebration of life. Jerry will be wearing his Cruisin' the Coast shirt. So, feel free to dress casually and wear your favorite Cruisin' the Coast or Hawaiian shirt.

Services will be held on Friday, March 6th, at Grace Point Church, at 15147 East Wortham Road, Saucier, MS 39574. The visitation will start at 10:00 a. m. The prayer service will start at 11:00 a.m. The immediate family will go to the graveside service at Floral Hills Memorial Garden. 

Please join us for refreshments and fellowship following the services.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Joseph's Home at 15147 East Wortham Road, Saucier, MS 39547.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the York family during this difficult time.