Ruford Jerome "Jerry" Lakes, age 80 of Trenton, OH, passed away Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Hospice of Hamilton. He was born on September 22, 1946, the son of Ruford O. & Josephine (Hibbard) Lakes.

Jerry received his education at the Columbus School for the Blind. He worked for Miami University Oxford in the bakery, from which he retired in 2009. Jerry lived in community homes being cared for by ECI, Inc. for almost three decades. Once he moved into Timberman Home in Hamilton, he made lifelong friendships. For many years of recent, Jerry attended The Activity Lodge, where, once again, he was incredibly adored.

Affectionately known in his community as "Jer-Bear," he loved making music for his roommates and his friends at The Lodge by playing his harmonica and keyboard. While at home, Jerry enjoyed playing with his Legos, watching Gunsmoke and Channel 12 News, and holding and caring for his baby dolls. He had a love for his food especially for Casey’s cheeseburgers. He loved interacting with others wherever he went, like church, out to eat, or birthday parties and community events that were held all over. Most of all, Jerry loved taking his naps everyday.

When feeling well, Jerry would attend Redeemer Church. The church members would pick up Jerry and take him to Sunday services, where often times he received lunch afterwards, which he greatly enjoyed and appreciated! The church members also cherished their time with Jerry.

Jerry was a kind and gentle man who enjoyed and appreciated all the joys of life. He was able to make friends easily. He had an easy-going nature that made him extremely likeable and relatable. While Jerry was visually impaired, his memory of people's voices was absolutely amazing and endearing. He was always full of joy and a happiness that many counted on. Jerry made people's day that much more special with him being in it. Jerry was someone who made everyone's day better, he was always so kind and happy. Jerry never forgot a voice, just by saying hello, he always knew who he was talking to. Jerry brought out the good in everyone around him and brought an uplifting mood anywhere he would go.

Jerry will be greatly missed! It is without a doubt that he is flying high and singing his favorite hymns up in Heaven with friends of his past. He was truly a gem.

A visitation will be held Thursday, October 15, 2026 from 1:00-2:00pm in the Zettler Funeral Home, 2646 Pleasant Ave. A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00pm on October 15, 2026 also in the Zettler Funeral Home. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery.