Obituary of Gerald E. Baxter

Gerald E. "Jerry" Baxter 89, of Carlinville, formerly of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas and Rutland, Illinois, died Friday, August 19, at his residence. He was born Tuesday, July 25, 1922 in Minonk, IL, the son of the late James and the late Bernice (Bridge) Baxter. He married Betty Bates in New York City on February 24, 1944. He was lifelong farmer. He was a past Elder of the Rutland Christian Church, President of the Rutland School Board for 12 years, and also served on the board of the Fire District and Cemetery in Rutland. He graduated from Dana High School, then graduated from Blackburn College and the University of Illinois with degrees in agriculture.He also attended Purdue and Columbia Universities. Jerry served his country during WWll in the Navy. Jerry was an avid golfer, with five hole-in-ones to his credit. Survivors: Wife, Betty Baxter of Carlinville, IL, Daughter, Jennifer Hamilton (Don) of Carlinville, IL, Daughter, Jill Hamilton (Gary) of Pawnee, IL, Son, Jeff Baxter of Rutland, IL, Daughter, Julie Olsen (Brad) of Cordova, TN, 8 Grandchildren, 6 Great Grandchildren, Sister, Camilla Slown of Pontiac, IL, Brother, Errol Baxter (Doris) of North Aurora, IL, Brother, Jim Baxter (Noreen) of Charlotte, NC, Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by Brother and Sisters: Clinton Baxter, Jewel Thies, and Nelle Shearl. Funeral Information Graveside Memorial Services: 10:30 A.M., Saturday, August 27, 2011 at Rutland Cemetery. Rev. Alan W. Kline will officiate. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after the memorial service at the Rutland American Legion Hall. Donations Information Memorials may be made to the Madonna Learning Center, Inc., 7007 Poplar Avenue, Germantown, TN 38138.