Gerald Stewart Whitehead “Jerry”

On March 23, 2023, our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather brother, uncle and friend left this earth to “fly with the angels”, after battling with advanced dementia for several months. He was 88 years old.
Jerry was born on December 27, 1934, to Donald and Iona Whitehead. They were very loving parents and Jerry had an idyllic childhood with lots of brothers and sisters and a great many friends that played together. He loved all sports including baseball, football, basketball and track.
Jerry graduated from Weber High School in Ogden and later from Weber State College with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology.
He served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Minnesota after high school and continued throughout his life serving in many callings. Among them were secretary for the Ward High Priest Group, a guide at the Conference Center, Stake Missionary and The Addiction Recovery Program. His favorite was working with the Cub Scouts, a position he held for ten years.
Jerry joined the U.S. Army and served six months active duty and continued with the reserves for six years.
He was a proud father to Geraldine, Richard and Corrine, one of his greatest accomplishments. After marrying the love of his life Charlene Butterfield on April 17, 1969 he became a loving stepfather to Terri, Debby and Scott.
Jerry was proud of his work ethic and received many accolades over the years. He worked for Meadow Gold, Frontier Airline, Nomad Travel and the Newspaper Agency. His favorite job came after retirement when he was hired at Fore Lakes Golf Course. He loved golf and enjoyed many, many rounds with friends and family over the year. He may or may not have “fudged” a few strokes in his day. He did however have two “hole in ones”, that WERE verified. They happened to be on the same hole five years apart.
Jerry was a huge fan of the Utah Jazz, as well as Weber State, BYU and U of U football.
Jerry was sealed to his eternal companion Charlene in the Jordan River Temp le on May 18, 2001.
Over the years he traveled with his “sweetheart” to many exotic and fascinating destinations such as Europe, Israel, China, Mexico, The Philip pines, The Bahamas and several states throughout the U.S. including Alaska and Hawaii.
Jerry loved to do magic tricks and over the years delighted many audiences with his act “Marco the Magician.” He often employed his grandchildren to assist him on stage and his “flub-ups” were legendary. He would have the audience howling with laughter and he would smile that wry smile then laugh along as well. Many a family party was livened up with this entertainment.
He also loved playing Santa Claus, owning his own suit and beard. The children were thrilled to sit on his lap and tell “Santa” what they wanted for Christmas. He received much joy from doing this and could hardly contain his excitement when each holiday season drew near.
One of his proudest moments was when he was chosen as a volunteer for the 2002 Winter Olympics. He relished in telling the story about how his assignment was driving a wealthy businessman and his family around to the different venues. He bragged about what a “cushy” gig it was. He was even able to score an extra ticket for his wife to attend the opening ceremonies with them. His genuine affection and authenticity were the basis for many friendships over the years.
Jerry never had an unkind word to say about anyone. His disposition and patience were unmatched. Never did he raise his voice although at times he easily could have. His patience was tested multiple times but always he rose above it with a quick-witted response or a humorous reply.
His nurses and aides at the care center always commented about how he was their favorite resident because of his kindness and sweet smile.
Jerry is survived by wife Charlene, daughter’s Terri Buck (Don), Geraldine “Geri” Miller, and Corrine Turton. Son’s Richard Whitehead (Pam), and Scott Butterfield (Julie). Sister’s Norma Hoover (Kelvin), Marilyn Henrikson, Cheryl Spence r (Mike) and sister-in-law Sue Whitehead. Brother’s Ron Whitehead (Merilyn), and Bob Whitehead. As well as many adored grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Preceded in death by parents, brother Ken Whitehead, daughter Debby Mackay, son-in-law Mike Miller and grandson Jason Potter.
The family would like to thank Harmony Hospice for their gentle and loving care.
Funeral services will be held at 12:00PM on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at the Stonewood LDS Ward, 6030 South Prairie View Drive, Taylorsville, Utah 84129.  A Viewing will be from 11:00 to 11:45 AM prior to the services at the church.
Service Information
Viewing March 28, 2023 at 11:00 AM-12:00 PM
6030 South Prairie View Drive, Taylorsville, Utah 84129





Funeral Service
March 28, 2023 at 12:00 PM
6030 South Prairie View Drive, Taylorsville, Utah 84129