Jerry Dean Speich

Jerry Dean Speich entered eternity to be with his Savior Jesus Christ on September 9, 2024 at 12:38 am. He was surrounded by his wife of 61 years, his loving children and grandchildren. Jerry was a simple man that was known for his honesty, strong work ethic, and unconditional love for his family. He was a loyal son, protective big brother, devoted husband, dependable dad, proud papaw, beloved uncle, and loyal friend. Jerry made you want to be a better person and will be missed by all that knew him. Preceded in death by: Parents: James and Pauline Howard; Son: Michael Speich; Brother: Jimmy Howard; Sister: Kay Hayes (Clarence); Sister-in-law: Marie Howard and Brother-in-law: Delbert Golliher

He is survived by:

Wife: Betty Speich of Rockwood, TN

Son: Randall Dean Speich (Tonya) of Crossville, TN

Daughter: Susan Elaine Stewart (David) of Crossville, TN

Six Grandchildren: Cas Speich, Chloe Speich, Liv Stewart, Caden Speich, Emmie Speich, 

and Aivree Stewart

Daughter-in-law: Lynn Speich of Rockwood, TN

Brother: Johnny Howard of Rockwood, TN

Sisters: Darla Baird (Onnis), Gail Comer (Darrell) of Rockwood, TN

Sister-in-laws: Renee Howard of Rockwood ,TN

And a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Jerry was a lifelong resident of the Westel Community and a member of Westel Baptist Church where he served as a deacon. His early years were consumed playing baseball and softball. If “Tighteye” was not on the ballfield playing centerfield then you could find him throwing ball at Curtis’ Grocery Store with his friends. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Betty. 

Jerry and Betty’s love story began on August 16, 1963. During their 61 years of marriage they were blessed with 3 children, Mike, Randy, and Susie. 

Jerry worked for over 46 years as a parts manager at 2 local car dealerships, Rockwood Motors and Jerry Duncan Ford. While at Rockwood Motors he also drove a wrecker. During those 46 years he received many recognitions from Ford Motor Company for his outstanding service. 

Retirement was the next chapter for Jerry. He and Betty enjoyed antiquing, vacationing, gardening (especially his tomatoes), but most of all he loved spending time with his 6 grandchildren. Most days in the summer you could find Jerry with his grandkids on the porch shucking corn or breaking beans. It was important for Jerry to instill a good work ethic while teaching life lessons to his grandchildren. 

Jerry was an avid sports fan and loved cheering for the Atlanta Braves and the Tennessee Vols. 

A celebration of life will be held at Westel Baptist Church on September the 14th, 2024 at 3pm Eastern Standard Time. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1 to 3pm.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Westel Baptist Church.

Westel Baptist Church 

40 Westel Loop 

Rockwood, TN 37854