Jerri was born on June 5, 1947, to J. D. and Mildred Massey Burton in Winston County. She was a member of Shiloh Baptist Church. Jerri loved to sew and she enjoyed sharing that talent with others by teaching them to sew as well. She also enjoyed cooking, especially for family gatherings during the holidays. Jerri enjoyed traveling, particularly to the Smoky Mountains. Another activity that made her happy was shopping…for shoes, clothes, and purses; and she enjoyed shopping to dress the grandchildren. Jerri was the “backbone” of her family; always ready to help anyone whenever she was needed.
Jerri is survived by her loving husband of 35 years Billy Stephens of Noxapater. She is also survived by her children: Patricia Vowell and husband Steve of Louisville; Daniel “Sonny” Kirkland of Noxapater; Sheila Peterson and husband Ken of Lake Charles, Louisiana; and Betty Smith and husband Robert of West Point, Mississippi. One of her greatest joys was being “MaMaw in the white car” to her five grandchildren: Melissa Vowell, Cody Vowell, Joshua Peterson, Amy Pilgrim, and Nikki Smith; six great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Jerri leaves behind her sister Joanna (Jimmy) Burton; and two nieces Susan Woodruff and Toni (Bubba) Boykin. She will be dearly missed by her constant companion for the last 10 years, her dog Lulu. Jerri was preceded in death by her daughter Lisa Prisock; her son Chuck Kirkland; and her parents.
Serving as pallbearers are Chris Allen, Nicky Allen, Bubba Boykin, Justin Boykin, Tyler Cumberland, and Josh Fisher. Honorary pallbearers are Steve Vowell and Robert Smith. Memorials in memory of Jerri may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Tribute Program, P. O. Box 1000 Department 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142.
Services are under the direction of Nowell Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
