Mr. Jerry Dean Avery "Grave Digger" of Lenoir, NC, passed away on November 19, 2023.

Jerry was born on July 10, 1950 to the late Peter M. Avery and Alfredia Whisnant Avery in Caldwell County, NC.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers Walter Webb and Kenneth Avery.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Jane Greene Avery of the home; Daughters Regina Dishman (Doug) and their children, Justin, Jadah, and Josie; daughter, Jodi Lillard (Nathan) of Lenoir, NC; brothers, Baxter Avery (Angie) and Johnny Avery of Lenoir, NC; sister, Ruby Day of Lenoir, NC and sister Nancy Hampton of Rutherfordton, NC; and great-grandchildren, Gravelin, Jesse, and MarieLynn.

Jerry was an avid fisherman and hunter. He especially enjoyed coon hunting. He was a grave digger since 1978 in Caldwell and surrounding counties. Jerry specifically dug graves for Greer-McElveen Funeral Home since the early 1980s. His memory will be cherished and celebrated by all who knew him.

A funeral service will be held on November 21, 2023 at Greer-McElveen Funeral Home at 2:00PM with Reverend David Allen Day officiating.

The family will receive friends prior to the service from 1:00PM-2:00PM at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Park.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.greer-mcelveenfuneralhome.com.

Greer-McElveen Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Mr. Jerry Dean Avery.