Jerry Lee Fisher, 70, of Ottumwa, died November 6, 2024 at his home.
He was born September 11, 1954 in Ottumwa to Robert M. and Donna D. Huntley Fisher Sr. Jerry married Madonna DeMoss in 1975 and they later divorced after raising their two children.
A 1972 graduate of Ottumwa High School, Jerry was an avid Thespian in both high school, and at Ottumwa Heights College, where he and Madonna met. Jerry worked at the Chillicothe power plant, helping to build the smokestack, and as a delivery driver for Budweiser. He also co-owned two local bars over the years, The Waterhole of Hedrick and J&J’s Keg of Ottumwa.
Later in life, he went on to graduate from William Penn University with a degree in education and served many years as a 7th-8th grade English teacher in the Eddyville-Blakesburg school district. While working as a teacher he continued his education through Iowa State University, earning two master’s degrees in counseling and administration, moving on to serve in the Oskaloosa district, and finally back to his home in Ottumwa. He ended his career as the At-Risk Coordinator for the district, serving students at the alternative high school.
Jerry had many hobbies and interests over the years, including baseball and slow-pitch softball, duck and pheasant hunting, and golf. As a sports lover, he enjoyed coaching many teams throughout the years, from middle school to college including basketball, volleyball, and golf. He was a lover of old cars, the Iowa Hawkeyes, and all kinds of music. He loved to attend concerts and shows, and he played harmonica in the local band, The Heywoods.
Surviving are his children, Wesley (Kelly) Fisher of Wentzville, MO, and Lauren Fisher of Ottumwa; 4 grandchildren, Domenic, Donovan, Hank, and Scout; and two brothers, Robert M.“Butch” (Candy) Fisher Jr. of Ottumwa and Dennis D. (Ann) Fisher of Kansas City, MO.; along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
His body has been cremated.
Memorial services will be 3:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16th at Reece Funeral Home. The family will be present to greet friends from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. prior to the service.
Memorials may be made to Ottumwa Community Schools for the benefit of Gateway High School or Heartland Humane Society.
