Jerry Mankin, a man of quiet strength and steadfast principles, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at his home in Gallatin, Tennessee. Born on February 25, 1938, in Minor Hill, Tennessee, he was the son of the late Thomas R. Mankin and Margaret Turner Mankin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ted Mankin, Tommy Mankin, and his sister, Suzanne Schofield.

After graduating from Florida High, part of Florida State University, he joined the United States Navy. Jerry was a proud veteran who served for eight years. His service took him across the skies patrolling between Hawaii and Alaska. Later, he served as an air traffic controller in the Philippines before concluding his naval career at Naval Air Station Miramar in Southern California.

Following his military service, Jerry took his disciplined nature and entrepreneurial spirit into the business world, owning and operating Unique Stationers Office Supply. Known for his integrity and methodical approach, he ran his business “by the book,” earning the respect and trust of his clients.

Beyond his career, Jerry was a man of strong Christian faith and attended Saint Michael’s Anglican Church in Gallatin. He was an introvert by nature, but he found joy in a variety of hobbies. He was a licensed pilot who proudly owned two airplanes during his life and harbored a love for motorcycles. Jerry also nurtured a beautiful garden, embraced the underwater world through scuba diving, and enjoyed sailing, kayaking, snow skiing, and RV life.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jane Cato Mankin; his daughters, Julie (Todd) Buttrey and Jonie (Elliott) Sparks; his brother, Joey Mankin; and his sister, Carol Terceno. He was also a proud grandfather to Megan (Matt) Jankiewicz, Chase Stidham, Morgan (Austin) Petitt, Emily (Dr. Jared) Britt, and Mitchell (Melanie) Buttrey. He leaves behind a legacy as a great-grandfather to Scarlett Jankiewicz, Mattie Kate Jankiewicz, Henley Buttrey, Mason Jankiewicz, and Parker Petitt, with another great-grandchild on the way. This extended family stands as a testament to Jerry’s legacy of love and dedication.

Funeral services to honor Jerry’s memory will be held at Crestview Funeral Home, Memory Gardens & Cremation, located at 1623 Hwy 109 N, Gallatin, TN 37066. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 12, followed by the funeral service officiated by Rev. David Greenwood at 12:30 PM. Burial will follow at 3:00 PM at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 111 Lebanon Pike, Nashville, TN 37210. His family will be honored to serve as pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gallatin Cares.

Arrangements are entrusted to Crestview Funeral Home, Memory Gardens & Cremation. Online condolences can be left at CrestviewFH.com.