Jerry Bean Jr., 63
Jerry Bean Jr., 63, formerly of Bakersfield, died Feb. 10, 2025, at Community Hospital East in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Jerry was born Feb. 9, 1962, in West Plains, the son of Jerry and Sarah (Shinn) Bean. He graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1980. Jerry joined the United States Army shortly after graduation, proudly serving in Finance for 21 years. He married Natalie (Merrell) Bean on Aug. 11, 1995.
While in the Army, he also served as a finance Instructor and a drill sergeant, which will clarify some things for all who knew him. After retiring from the military, Jerry got his bachelor's degree in accounting and worked for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). He was passionate about accounting and military pay and wanted to mentor everyone in doing the right thing, saving money and his all-time favorite topic, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Jerry and the family settled in Greenfield, Indiana, where he immediately immersed himself in the community. He joined the Westin Elementary PTO, even serving as the president in the organization. He coached football, basketball and baseball – too many teams to count. The last one was his niece's and nephew's 5-year-old t-ball team, which brought him so much joy. Jerry was an integral member of the development of the Hancock County Veterans Park, working tirelessly to show honor to the brave men and women who served from Hancock County. He loved playing and umpiring softball in addition to his Tuesday night bowling league. When his three daughters were young, they wanted to take ballet class, but he talked them into bowling instead. He loved everyone, whether related or not, and wanted to set everyone up for success. He was tough and stern but really a big old softie when it came down to it.
He was dearly loved by his large, beautiful family, which included his parents, children, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and one self-proclaimed UNO queen. Jerry taught the kids in the family to be humble and kind and show people who they are by doing great things; that is how people will see their value. He always said there is no need to brag, and he set the example; after winning a game, he would yell, “The champion and still the champion!”
Jerry is survived by his wife, Natalie; children: Stephanie, Melissa, Monika and Jerry III; parents, Jerry (Peg) Bean; siblings, Jesse (Amiee), Allyson (Shawn), and Jenny; and grandchildren, Jonathan and Ella.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Sarah.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hancock County Veterans Park, P.O. Box 844, Greenfield, IN 46140.