Jerry Garcia

Psalm 139:16 says before we were born God planned our days. On July 18, 1953 a baby was born named Jerry Garcia and as he grew it was evident that Jerry would be called a Servant of God. (Remember Jesus came to serve and not be served). Jerry would eventually touch the lives of many people of various cultures, many people in need of food assistance, abused children in foster care, and many Native Americans.

He began early on with involvement with the bus ministry to children in his church. Several years later he joined the Guatemalan team (with many trips) and used his Spanish language skills to interpret for the doctor and nurse team. Jerry excelled at ministry to unsaved Guatemalan men who would watch from a distance as village churches held service. About ten years ago Jerry began ministering to refugees from Nepal and presently Jerry touched the lives of many Karen people here from Burma (now called Myanmar). Jerry also prepared meals and provided entertainment for the buddies and staff upon their return from Royal Family Kids Camp (a camp for kids in foster care).

When Jerry retired from Central District Health, three years ago, he served faithfully at City Hope Food Pantry as well as Living Word Food Pantry where Pastor Okhee ministers. There were weeks where Jerry would serve hungry people four days at one pantry and several days at the second pantry. Galatians 6:9 says we should not be weary of well doing and at the proper time we will reap a harvest.

When Jerry fell ill and was at St. Lukes ICU he was surrounded by many people who loved him so much. The on October 1st. Jerry said, “it’s time to go home”. (His heavenly home). About seven hours after his oxygen was reduced, Jerry was able to see Heaven, embrace his Savior, and hear the words “WELL DONE GOOD AND FAITHFUL STEWARD”.