Jerry Joseph Higley (1922-2014) died peacefully at Mercy Hospital Monday morning at the age of 92. Jerry is preceded in death by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Beverly (Boyer) Higley. Jerry grew up in Rolla and was a veteran of World War II. He played trumpet and enjoyed a camaraderie with his military bandmates. Music was always important to Jerry. He had a love and passion for the big band sound. After serving he moved back to Missouri, where he attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, School of Journalism on the G.I. Bill. After graduating he met and married Poplar Bluff town beauty Beverly Boyer. They raised 5 children in Springfield, MO. Bev and Jerry shared a love of big band music and a keen sense of humor. He began his broadcast career at radio station KWOC in Poplar Bluff, MO. His gift of gab, popularity and experience moved him to the larger market of Springfield. He was among the first News Anchors for KYTV in 1953. He became a DJ and then Program Director for Springfield radio station KGBX in the 60's and 70's. Jerry was a well-known public figure. Notable interviews included future president Ronald Reagan and rising star Elvis Presley. His popular shows, "Montage" and "Marketplace" aired for years. Colleagues sometimes referred to him as "The Golden Voice of Radio." Jerry will be remembered for his quick and sardonic wit. He was always ready with a joke, even in his final days. He passed his sense of humor on to his children, who will continue his legacy of charming and sly sarcasm. He is preceded in death by sisters, Mary Francis (Higley) Davis and Grace (Higley) Blume. Jerry is survived by his brother, Bill Higley of Rolla and sister Patrice Dotson of Eugene, Oregon. He is also survived by daughter, Christie Higley; daughter, Cindy Higley Webb and her husband Jaime Williamson, and Cindy's children, Kory Trapp, Taylor Webb, and Jordan Webb; son, Pat Higley and partner Patti Tribble; daughter, Beth (Higley) Bentley, her husband Chris Bentley and their children, Grace Bentley, Emma Bentley, and Charlie Bentley; and daughter Emily (Higley) Whitaker and her husband Perry Whitaker. Funeral services will be Thursday, September 18, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. Burial with full military honors will follow at Missouri Veterans Cemetery at 10:00 a.m.
