Gerald Edward "Jerry" McBride, lovingly known to so many as Grandpa Jerry, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026, in Brush, Colorado, after courageously battling a lengthy illness. He was 79 years old.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1st at Life Fellowship, 17723 County Road 20, Fort Morgan, Colorado 80701. There will be a reception to follow the service.

Jerry was born on April 6, 1947, in Sterling, Colorado, to Robert and Irene McBride and raised in Illiff, Colorado. He was one of thirteen children and grew up surrounded by the love and lessons that come with a large family.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Machinist's Mate, completing four tours in Vietnam. His military service reflected the courage, dedication, and selflessness that would define the rest of his life.

On March 1974, Jerry married the love of his life, Mary Lynn Stillman. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and unconditional love.

For more than 40 years, Jerry worked in the oil field as a truck pusher. Throughout his career, he earned the respect of everyone who worked alongside him. He was known for his incredible work ethic, unwavering integrity, fairness, and the genuine respect he showed every employee. To Jerry, the people he worked with were never just employees—they were friends.

Above all else, Jerry loved the Lord Jesus Christ. His faith guided every aspect of his life and was evident in the way he loved, served, and cared for others. He was a man of deep kindness, generosity, and humility.

Most people simply knew him as Grandpa Jerry, a title that extended far beyond his own family. He was a son, husband, brother, father, brother-in-law, grandpa, great-grandpa, uncle, the ultimate secret keeper, mentor, and friend. He had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and valued.

Jerry's smile was unforgettable, and his laughter could brighten any room. He always had a new joke ready and believed there was never a bad time for a good laugh. He found joy in making others smile and carried a warmth that drew people to him wherever he went.His love for his family was fierce and unwavering. There was nothing he wouldn't do for the people he loved—or for someone in need. Through both his words and his example, Jerry taught those around him to work hard, treat others with kindness and respect, remain humble, and never forget where they came from. His life touched countless people, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him was better because of it.

Jerry is survived by his three children: daughter Trisha Terry and her partner Pam Redman of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; daughter Jen McBride and her wife Kate McBride of Fort Morgan, Colorado; and son Patrick McBride and his wife Margi McBride of Fort Morgan, Colorado.

He is also survived by his siblings: Marge Brown and husband Bob of Grand Junction, Colorado, James McBride of Sterling, Colorado; Kathy Bayer and her husband Floyd of Scottsbluff, Nebraska; and Ronald McBride and his wife Ginny of Sterling, Colorado. Many Nieces, Nephews, great nieces and great nephews from all over.

Jerry leaves behind sixteen beloved grandchildren: Bryce Mezney and his wife Kallie of Santa Rosa, California; Toby McBride and his wife Brittany of Parker, Colorado; Josh Alley and his wife Mary of Florida; Caleb Alley of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Megan Hostens and her husband Bryce of Fort Morgan, Colorado; Trey McBride of Scottsdale, Arizona; Dylan McBride and his wife Hallee of Arvada, Colorado; Brennan McBride and his wife Isabel of Fort Morgan, Colorado; Taya McBride of Fort Collins, Colorado; and Ashton McBride of Fort Morgan, Colorado.

He was also blessed with six great-grandchildren: Nikolas, Amelie, Adessa, Emma, Cora, and Atlas who brought him immeasurable joy.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Lynn McBride; his parents, Robert and Irene McBride; his siblings George "Fuzz" McBride and his wife Maryann, Kay Roth, Bob McBride and his wife Fritz, Eleanor Leach and her husband Gayle, Patricia Claremont, Carol Sauer, Bill McBride, and Barbara McBride; and his sister-in-law Phyllis McBride.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing Jerry is now reunited with the love of his life and is in the presence of his Savior. His legacy lives on in the faith he shared, the values he instilled, the laughter he spread, and the countless lives he touched.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

Memorial contributions may be made in Jerry's honor to the Morgan County Golden Stars program, a cause that Jerry and Mary faithfully supported each year.

Donations may be mailed to:

Morgan County Golden Stars
c/o Morgan County Sheriff's Office
801 East Beaver Avenue
Fort Morgan, CO 80701

For those who wish to send flowers, arrangements are being handled through The Flower Petaler.

The family sincerely thanks everyone for the love, prayers, kindness, and support shown during this difficult time. Your compassion, memories, and friendship have been a great comfort as we celebrate Jerry's remarkable life. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy of faith, integrity, generosity, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.