Edward Alfred Jeter, Jr., 81, of Centralia was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior Saturday, September 18, 2021, passing away at Fireside House in Centralia. He was born on March 28, 1940, the son of Edward Alfred Sr. and Grace (Tucker) Jeter in Pulaski, Illinois.
Survivors left to mourn Edward’s passing include his sisters Juanita Buntyn and husband William of Killeen, Texas, and Mildred Montgomery of Evanston, Illinois; a host of nieces and nephews; dearly beloved niece Tina Perkins; special nephew Tyrone; and dear friend Phillip “Footie” Offutt.
Edward was preceded in death by his parents Edward Sr. and Grace Jeter; siblings Herman Jeter, George Tucker, Lee Jeter, Hazel Whitelow, Lottie Mae Jeter, Bernice Wright, Mattie Daniels, Catherine Jeter, Lily Jeter, and 4 additional siblings.
Mr. Jeter was a loyal employee of Salem Courthouse, where he served as a janitor. He also offered his services at Valley Steel in Salem, Rockwell in Centralia, and Centralia City Schools. Edward was a faithful member of his church family at Lively Stone Church. His greatest passion and purpose in life was sharing the good news of the salvation found in Jesus Christ while ministering to others. Edward would often share his favorite bible chapter, Psalm 37, to encourage others to turn their eyes upon Jesus and let Him change their life. He was a skilled guitar player, strumming out his favorite songs such as I’m Gonna Trust in the Lord, and Don’t Let the Devil Ride With You. He was known by family and friends to enjoy buying cars and lawnmowers. Also known for his sweet tooth, he loved a good chocolate moon pie, cookies, and chocolate shakes from McDonald’s. He could fry the best bologna sandwich around and ate them quite frequently. He loved all of the workers who served him at the Fireside Nursing Home. Edward leaves a legacy of a man with a hard work ethic, kindness, and compassion for others, and shining his light for the Lord.
Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Edward Jeter, Jr. with arrangements. A celebration of life service is planned for a future date. Online condolences and memories of Edward may be shared with the family by visiting wwww.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
