Roll Call Tribute

Gerald Lee "Jerry" Wakefield, Lt. Col. USAF (Ret) 

June 26, 1938 - December 8, 2025 

Gerald Lee Wakefield, 87, of Stephens City, Virginia, passed away leaving a legacy of faithful service, deep love for family, and a rare gift for turning strangers into friends. Gerald was born in 1938 in Gainesville, Texas, to R.C. and Ermalee Wakefield (both preceding him in death). He was also preceded in death by his brother, Lowell Wakefield of Childress, Texas, survived by his sister-in-law, Reba Wakefield. He is likewise survived by his sisters, Joyce Polasek, and Joyce’s husband, Charles (deceased), of Abilene, Texas, and Janet Wilson, and Janet’s husband, Richard (deceased), of Abilene, Texas.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Clara Wakefield of Stephens City, Virginia; his son, Derrill Wakefield, and Derrill’s wife, Ann, of Lucas, Ohio; and his daughter, Cheri Barton, and Cheri’s husband, Bret, of Stephens City, Virginia. Gerald also leaves a cherished family of grandchildren: Annaliese Barton, Andrew Barton, and Amy Mount, and Amy’s husband, Michael; as well as his great-grandchild, Knox Mount.

Gerald was a graduate of Texas A&M University and North Dakota State University. He served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Following his military service, he moved into commercial and institutional leadership roles, including positions with Mutual of Omaha, Central States Insurance of Omaha, and the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Gerald loved his wife of 63 years, and he especially treasured time spent with family and friends. He was widely known for his ability to walk up to anyone—anywhere—and leave the conversation having made a genuine friend.

Above all, Gerald placed his trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, intentionally passing his faith to the next generation. While he will be deeply missed as his family continues on without him, they do so with peace and confidence in God’s promises, looking forward to the day they will be reunited in the new heaven and new earth, where all is worship and praise to God for eternity.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 2pm at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel.