Jerry Ellen Anderson

Jerry Ellen Jowers Anderson was born on April 14, 1934 in Whigham, Georgia to the late Jerry Franklin and Myrtice Louise Jowers. She passed away peacefully in her home in Dothan, Alabama on April 30, 2024 - she was 90 years old. 

Jerry grew up on a small farm in south Georgia and after graduating from Whigham High School, she went to work at the military base in Bainbridge, Georgia where young Air Force pilots were trained. There she met Robert Dale Anderson, a young pilot and it was truly love at first sight because two months later on April 21st, they got married and immediately moved to Maine for his first assignment. 

She faced profound challenges when her beloved husband gave his life in service during the Vietnam War, leaving her to raise their three daughters alone. She embraced her role as both mother and father with grace and courage. Her daughters, whom she cherished above all else, were the center of her world, and she tirelessly provided for them, ensuring they had the love and support needed to thrive.

Beyond her role as a dedicated mother, Jerry was a beloved sister, aunt, grandmother and friend to many. Her warmth and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her, and she was admired for her creative spirit, thriftiness, and resourcefulness in all aspects of life. She had a passion for golf, bowling, knitting, sewing, cooking, playing cards and games, and supporting all her family members.

Jerry's life was a testament to the power of love, strength, and unwavering courage in the face of adversity. She was known for her infectious laughter, unwavering kindness and devotion to her family. She married the love or her life and enjoyed traveling being a military wife. Nothing brought her more joy than her grandchildren and family. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Col. Robert "Bob" Anderson, Brother-in-law John Smith and brother Billy Jowers. Survivors include her daughters Lynda Anderson (Randy), Debra Anderson and Jodie Hardman (Bill); grandchildren Jessica Morris (Chris), Robert Anderson (Emily), Miller Hardman, Anderson Hardman and great-grandchild Elijah Morris; sisters Elaine Singletary, Shelia Smith and sister-in-law Evelyn Jowers; nieces Tara Weldon (Michael), Katie Caddis (Matt) and Nephew Chris Jowers (Genna). 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 29th at 1:00 pm at Sunset Memorial Park & Chapel located at 1700 Barrington Road, Midland City, Alabama 36350. Please RSVP to andersonld5715@yahoo.com or 334.701.7592. She will be interned in the Jowers family plot in Whigham, Georgia on a separate date and time to be determined.