Jerry L. Milan

jerry milan

November 1, 1953 ~ April 30, 2025

Jerry L. Milan passed away in his hometown of Columbus, Indiana, on April 30, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on November 1, 1953, Jerry’s life was full of laughter, music, and an immeasurable love for his family. Jerry found the love of his life in Cindy Donica, and they married on October 12, 2016. Jerry will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Cindy, along with his cherished daughters Jodi (Ryan) Wren and Lori (Kaden) Taylor, who reside in Jacksonville, Florida, and Hannah Milan of Columbus. His fun-loving personality and adventurous spirit live on through his grandchildren Jaden and Layla Wren, Lily and Bode Taylor, and Henley Milan, who filled his days with immeasurable pride and joy. His sisters, Joan Peppard, Teresa George, and Deb (Steve) Lienhoop, all of Columbus, will carry forward the memories of their brother's unique spirit. His five nieces and nephews will also hold dear the times shared with their Uncle Jerry. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Edward and Jane Davidson Milan, and his brothers-in-law, Mick Peppard and Mike George. Jerry had a long career in retail management at several establishments including Big Blue, Walmart and Lowes. His passions included golf and playing music. A self-taught musician; he played several instruments, but was known for his guitar playing. Jerry played in numerous bands from junior high until later in life. He loved playing and writing songs whether he was playing out in bands or performing for a group of friends or loved ones. He loved playing golf and in younger days, competed in city tournaments and captured a win at the Par 3 Championship Flight. Jerry also loved celebrating the holidays, and was legendary among family and friends for his festive Halloween and Christmas décor. Friends and family may gather for visitation from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home. A private family service will take place on Thursday with Pastor Tim Carter officiating. Jerry will be laid to rest in Garland Brook Cemetery. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in memory of Jerry may do so to the American Cancer Society or to Love Chapel through the funeral home. Jerry was fun loving with a sense of humor and brought a unique perspective to most situations. He always had time for family or friends that dropped in, whether just to sit and catch up or listen to a problem and share his insights on the matter at hand. Jerry left a lasting imprint on the hearts of those he touched, ensuring that while his presence will be missed, the echoes of his loving and playful heart will be celebrated always.

 

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  1. At Henley’s birthday party last year Jerry leaned over and said “Peg I didn’t think it was possible I didn’t think it could ever happen, but I think Henley’s even cuter than Hannah was when she was a baby “

  2. I am deeply saddened by Jerry’s passing. He was my first real boyfriend in junior high and we went steady for several months. My mom adored him. Jerry and I had braces at the same time, so kissing was painful and difficult. We spent hours on the phone, sharing our innermost thoughts. At a school talent show, Jerry and his pals played Happy Together by the Turtles. It was fabulous! Jerry told me he was singing it to me and I felt ten feet tall! It sounds as if Jerry had a full, happy life with family and friends. I am thrilled about that. He deserved it.

  3. Rickenbacker, Vox, Hofner, Gibson, Fender, Shure, Pearl, Ludwig, Sunn, Marshall, Hendrix, Cream, Credence, Stones, Turtles, Zappa, Byrds, Beatles, Kinks and on and on. That was our language and passion from ages 12 to 17. Hours and hours in his garage/bedroom/studio singing and playing our music LOUD, late into the night. His family must have been annoyed but never complained.at least to us. Peace my brother.

  4. Jerry and I were good friends growing up and we had some great times! His dad always referred to us as punks as kids and between Jerry’s wonderful mother Janie and big Ed they kept us inline as we were the terrors of Olmstead Drive. We spent many hours playing football in Mike Lane’s yard with Jerry’s younger sisters Teresa and Debby and the rest of the neighborhood kids. Sleeping out in the summertime was also a favorite pastime of ours. One adventure we had as teenagers was going to Kansas City on motor cycles to visit Joan, Jerry’s older sister, which was quite the trip at 17 years old. We survived it barely as Jerry lost his bearings getting back on the interstate after gassing up and he ran into me. We both ended up with road rash and a few dents and luckily nothing more! We also made more than one trip to the 500 mile race joining the party in the number one turn better known as the snake pit. Great memories of a good friend!

  5. A long time ago I stopped thinking of Jerry as just my best friend, but as my brother. I knew Jerry for 35 years and although we hadnt been able to see each other for some time we remained close. Jerry, we were pickers before the term existed. Going to yard sales and flea markets to find that 1 item (or 12) at our price. There isn’t room enough here to say how much you’ll be missed. Cindy my most heartfelt condolences to you, Jodi, Lori, & Hannah

  6. I’ve known Jerry for over 50 years. He introduced me to my wife, Jan.

    We played music together, mostly for fun, but we would get payed gigs on occasion. He was an excellent self-taught guitarist, and I would mostly play bass. We met up again, about 4 years ago, and jammed on Tuesdays from 2 to past 5 o’clock. I keep thinking that I would call him for one more jam session.


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