Jerry C. Noto

Jerry C. Noto of Potosi, Missouri, was born on January 20, 1934, in St. Johns, Missouri. He was the son of the late Peter and Mary Noto. Jerry entered the gates of heaven on Friday, October 5, at the age of 74.

Jerry is survived by three sons, Jerry, Mark and Paul Matthew; one step-son Thomas Dale and Debbie Bryant and three stepdaughters; Mary Jo Vance, Cindy and Harry McLaughlin and Theresa and Dave Johnson. Jerry had two granddaughters and four grandsons; Jason, Daniel, Glen and Nicholas and one great grandson; Danny Guffey.

Jerry grew up in St. Johns, Missouri. Living in a household with four sisters; Jenny, Francis, Josephine and Rose Mary. Jerry met Jane at a social gathering. This was a case of love at first sight. That evening it was clearly evident that they enjoyed each other’s company while others watched them dance through the evening. Shortly after their courtship, Jerry asked Jane to be his wife. They made a decision to elope and marry at a small quaint chapel across the Illinois State line. Although the snow was knee deep, it did not discourage them to take the plunge.

Jerry was a hard working man who believed in providing a decent life for his family. He worked on the assembly line at the General Motors Assembly plant for 32 years. His commute started at 4:00 a.m. It was a rare occasion that he would miss a day of work.

Jerry was an active member of The First Baptist Church of Potosi. This relationship began when a stranger knocked on their front door mistakenly looking for another family. Could this have been an Angel? Maybe? Jerry and Jane accepted the invitation to attend their church the following Sunday. After their first visit, they both knew that they had found what they were looking for spiritually. They found a church family that made them feel both welcome and special. Jerry was a devoted Christian; he walked the walk and talked the talk. Jerry loved Jesus with all his heart. His Bible helped him greatly by filling his mind with peace, courage and hope.

Although quiet the majority of the time, Jerry had a great sense of humor and portrayed that everything was just fine all of the time. Jerry rarely complained and was always so appreciative of what others did for him. He was a man of integrity and had a wonderful infectious smile. He volunteered at the Knights of Columbus in the kitchen frying fish and selling tickets. Jerry’s favorite day time event was listening to The Swap Shop radio broadcast. On occasions, he would call several times a day. He enjoyed this pastime of selling anything from lawn mowers to commemorative mugs. It nearly broke his heart when KYRO radio went off the air.

Jerry enjoyed fishing, playing cards and relaxing with his family. He
enjoyed western movies and gospel music. His Italian background led him to the kitchen to make his famous spaghetti. Jerry’s spaghetti was the best!

His family will miss his wit and sense of humor. Even during his last few months under the care of his two very special Hospice aides, Lisa Parsons and Rhonda Jones, he never complained. He always had a smile for them and eagerly awaited their visits. This confirmed Jerry’s strong will to live. Every evening, up to the last week of his death, he looked forward to leading the prayer at Cindy and Harry’s dining room table. He specifically prayed for a miracle to cure his illness and continued happiness in his marriage. Additionally, he expressed his appreciation to Brother Dale, Brother Jeff and his church family.

Although Jerry had many values and beliefs, one example was to avoid criticizing or condemning others. He will be missed by his generous and loving wife, Jane, his family and his friends.

Jerry’s favorite songs were: “Do not weep for Me”, “Here I am O Lord”, “Precious Memories”, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”.

Jerry passed away with pancreatic cancer and lung cancer at the age of 74.
He was a true child of God.

Visitation was held Sunday, October 7, 2007 from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Moore Funeral Home, Potosi, Missouri and Monday, October 8, 2007 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the Potosi First Baptist Church, Potosi, Missouri.

A Funeral Service was held Monday, October 8, 2007 at 10:00 AM at the Potosi First Baptist Church, Potosi, Missouri with Reverend Jeff Richards officiating assisted by Brother Dale Blount and Elder Leonard Compton. Serving as pallbearers were: Herb Pritchett, Dave Johnson, Nick Hauser, Michael Love, Glen Bryant and Bobby Kohler.

Final Prayers and Burial took place in the Redbud Memorial Gardens, Potosi, Missouri.

Services were Entrusted to the Care and Direction of the Moore Funeral Homes, 105 Clark Street, Potosi, Missouri.


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