JERRY SIMMS CALABOUGH,
83, of Little Rock, Ark., passed away on December 26, 2023. Jerry’s early years were spent on a ranch in Helena, Mont. He joined the Navy in August of 1958. Jerry started his career as an Electronics student and Airman, graduated sixth in a class of 465. While serving in the Navy, he obtained his Master’s degree, and graduated with Highest Honors and Distinction from San Diego State. He served in Korea, and was a veteran of the Vietnam war. His record shows he was highly decorated. Among the Medals he received were the Defense Meritorious Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal with Combat “V’ with gold star, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Service Metal with silver star, Vietnam Staff Honor Medal; First Class, REPUB of Vietnam Armed Forces Merit Unit Citation (Gallantry Cross), REPUB of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, along with Commendations Best Officer. He retired from the Navy, in January 1984, as a Navy Commander. He joined Unisys Corporation until he retired in 2005.
Jerry enjoyed life. His interest and hobbies, included being a Rally Car racer, fast cars, and trains. He loved to travel. He combined his passion for antique hand tools and traveled all over the United States, collecting antique hand tools. He also loved restoring antique tools and giving them to friends. Jerry believed in education and constantly read and attended life enrichment classes at local colleges. In the 83 years that Jerry lived, he was so many things to so many people. He was a son, a husband, a hero, a dad, a G-Pa, and a loyal friend. Jerry truly had a heart of gold, always looking out for others, lending a listening ear, or his arms for a hug. Jerry wasn’t just present; he was fully present 100% of the time. Jerry didn’t just live for his happiness but for the happiness of others.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry Simms Calabough and Laura Mina (Arps) Calabough. He is survived by his wife, Shelley Gentry Calabough; three daughters: Lynn Calabough Stange (Kris), Maria Calabough Hunter, Anne Simms Roggensees (Dan); a granddaughter, Lauryn Gray Kvasnicka (Cruz); two great-grandchildren: Thia Grace Kvasnicka and Mason Gray Kvasnicka; two stepsons: Jay Gentry and Patrick Gentry.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 1 p.m. at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, North Little Rock, Ark. Flowers may be sent to the funeral home or brought to the service. Arrangements are under the direction of RuebelFuneralHome.com.