Jerry E. Slater of Newark, Arkansas, departed this life on Thursday, July 11, 2024, at the age of 80. He was born August 2, 1944, in Decatur, Illinois, the son of Ira and Clara (Sauders) Slater.
Mr. Slater was a retired correctional officer, who enjoyed mechanical work and fishing. He was an avid NASCAR fan, who loved driving race cars, especially old #8. His favorite days were spent drinking coffee and talking to friends. This friendly man never met a stranger.
He was preceded in death by one son, David Whitener; one sister, Joanna Hendrix; one niece, Diane Carpenter; and his parents.
Mr. Slater is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Carol (Brackett) Slater of the home; two sons, Chris Slater of Newark, and Glenn Whitener of Newark; six daughters, Phyllis Jean Grizzell of Kentucky, Vicki Dale of Batesville, Kaye Slater of Batesville, Deborah Gardner of Newark, Melissa Smith of Newport, and Emlinn Rutledge of Newark; eleven grandchildren, David Bracey, Michael Lee Rutledge, Mitchell Gardner, Kellie Hughes, Alicia Whitener, Brandon Whitener, Tiffney Alexander, Makala Slater, Gabriel Slater, Jennifer Martin, and Jerry Nash; several great-grandchildren; his nephew, Randy Hendrix; and a lifetime of friends.
No services are planned at this time.
Arrangements by Jackson’s Newark Funeral Home.
