Geraldine "Jerry" Bales Denney

Farrar Funeral Home, Jefferson City

Geraldine (Jerry) Bales Denney, age 80, passed away July 18, 2024, at her home in Strawberry Plains. She was born March 28, 1944, to the late Pryor Lee and Ellen Bales, and was married to George (Buddy) Denney, the love of her life, until his death in 2001. Buddy and Jerry were owners and operators of Denney’s Woodworking in Strawberry Plains, selling solid oak furniture across the United States and overseas from 1982 to 1997. Jerry also worked for Standard Knitting Mill for 20 years and Food City for 16 years, but her “best job ever” was serving as a caregiver for 22 years. Jerry believed she was sent by God to be a caregiver, as her life was always about “helping others and sharing kindness.” Jerry was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Kodak Lodge, since 1962 and more recently a member of Strawberry Plains Methodist Church. Jerry was preceded in death by her parents and husband as well as by her sister, Leona Bales Rettig; brother, James W.T. (Jay) Bales; and nephew, James W. (Butch) Bales. She is survived by her special nephew, Danny Bales (Nicki) of Jefferson City; niece, Anne Bales Mitchell (Jack) of Strawberry Plains; great-nephews and great-nieces Shane Miles, Laura Miles, Jimmy Bales, Kristie Bales Huffman, Lesli Bales-Sherrod, Audra Bales Hakim, Mark Bales and Brad Bales; and all their spouses and children, including her “little buddy” Luke Hakim, who brought her great joy and of whom she was so proud. Jerry also is survived by her cat, Snickers, whom she called her son; her special friend Phyllis McCall, whom she loved like a sister; and many more great friends. The family will receive friends 4-6 p.m. Monday, July 22, at Farrar Funeral Home in Jefferson City with a funeral to follow at 6 p.m., the Rev. Jimmy Sherrod officiating. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 23, at Eastview Memorial Gardens in Strawberry Plains. Jerry wanted to thank everyone for the cards, food, visits, thoughts and prayers. In lieu of flowers, she requested that you make a donation to the animal shelter of your choice.