03/31/2009
William Joseph Jerkins was born on Aug. 16, 1923, in Hamilton, the son of John Jerkins and Mabel (Toye) Jerkins.
He graduated with the Knoxville High School class of 1942.
Following graduation, Bill enlisted in the United States Army on Jan. 28, 1943, until being honorably discharged on Feb. 11, 1946.
On April 21, 1948, Bill was united in marriage to Betty Cummings of Pella in Knoxville. Bill worked at Maytag in Newton for 30 years until his retirement. In his spare time, Bill enjoyed fishing and gardening.
He was also an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan.
William passed away on March 31, 2009, at the Knoxville Hospital at the age of 85. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Kevin, and two brothers, Edward and Raymond.
Survivors include his wife, Betty of Knoxville; sons, Stephen of Iowa City, Greg (Candy), and Mark all of Knoxville; seven grandchildren; a sister Geraldine (Wendell) Winters of Knoxville, along with other relatives and many friends.
A Graveside Service was held at Graceland Cemetery in Knoxville, on April 3 with Father Ernest Braida, officiating.
The interment was at Graceland Cemetery in Knoxville. Military Honors accorded by the United States Army, V.F.W. John Myers Post No. 3519, and the American Legion Baty-Tucker Post No. 168.