Jerry Davis Mentz, age 77, of Collinsville, IL, born November 18, 1947 in Greenwich, CT, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL 62062.

Jerry graduated from Proviso West High School, Hillside, IL in 1965. During his time at Proviso West, he was a stand out runner in track and cross country. He attended the University of Missouri at Columbia on a track scholarship. In 1968, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the USS Intrepid until 1972. Following his time in the Navy, he went on to work for Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville in their accounting and inventory department for 20 years. During that time, he received his BA and MA degree in English Literature. He would go on to receive his teaching certificate and become an elementary school teacher at the local schools. During his teaching years, he established and coached the cross country team at Good Shepherd Lutheran School - one of his proudest achievements. Jerry was an avid supporter of his sons' sports activities. He was never one to miss a game and could always be heard on the sidelines.

Jerry's favorite moments were spent with his family and friends. He was always quick with a remark and a great practical joker. Jerry loved playing golf, listening to music in the gazebo, enjoying a good glass of wine, and taking road trips with his family. For 25 years after his stroke, Jerry lived a happy and full life. He loved his family, his many friends, and those who had looked up to him.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 49 years, Deborah (nee Stevens) Mentz; two sons: Christopher (Kelsie nee Mooney) Mentz and Michael (Gabrielle Fairbairn) Mentz; two grandchildren: Charlie and Jackson Mentz; one brother: Jim (Judy) Mentz; one sister: Julie Williamson; one brother-in-law: Mark (Sharon) Stevens as well as numerous nieces and nephews he adored.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jerree (nee Adams) Mentz and one brother, Jack Mentz.

Memorial visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m.

Memorials are suggested to Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Collinsville, IL or charity of choice. They will be received during the visitation or can be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home 2800 North Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.