Jerry Kay (Loyd) Waalkes

Jerry K. (Loyd) Waalkes passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends, on Sunday, June 16, 2019 at her home at age 73. She was born August 17, 1945 in East St. Louis, Illinois, to the late Thomas Loyd and Mary Pearson. Jerry graduated L.C. Mohr High School and married her beloved husband, Jay Waalkes, 44 years ago on October 26, 1974. Jerry was preceded in death by her parents Thomas Loyd and Bobby and Mary (Pearson) Morgan. She is survived by her husband Jay Waalkes; her children Sandra Torres and spouse Carlos; Christina Simpson and her partner Jaclyn Bayliss, Carmen Modrzynski and spouse Gary, Robert Waalkes and spouse Michelle; several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Jerry was a kind, loving woman. She had the most beautiful smile and always brightened the day. She loved her family, her dogs, growing daisies, playing backgammon and cards, puzzles, crafting, and watching hummingbirds visit her yard. Jerry managed and then supervised several restaurants over her career. She was a member of Hope Reformed church, participated in the Ruth Circle and volunteered for Loaves and Fishes. She admired St Jude's Children's Research Hospital for their work and donated regularly. Jerry was always accepting and encouraging to everyone. She took the time to speak with everyone she interacted with each day.

A memorial gathering and service will be held for Jerry at Hope Reformed Church, 910 Jenks Blvd, Kalamazoo MI, on July 1, 2019 at 11:00 A.M. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in honor of Jerry to the following: St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, Hope Reformed Church or Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan. Though we grieve our loss, there is also joy in having known and loved such a special person. We invite you to leave a condolence, personal message or memory of Jerry on her online guest book.