Jerry Lee Byrn, 85, of Brashear, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.

Born September 2, 1939, in Kirksville, Missouri, Jerry was the son of James Clinton and Lucille (Ambrosia) Byrn. He graduated with the Brashear High School Class of 1957 and went on to spend his life working the land he loved as a dedicated farmer. Over the years, he also pursued a number of business ventures, including operating a trucking business, co-owning a construction business with his father, and later owning and running Byrn’s Body Shop for more than two decades with his sons.

On November 23, 1963, Jerry married Darlene Droke, with whom he shared more than 40 years of marriage until her passing in November 2005. He was also preceded in death by his daughter-in-law, Taira Byrn, in 2014.

On March 20, 2008, Jerry married Patty Newman Coy, who survives. Jerry is also survived by his children: Jeffrey (Dawn) Byrn of Greentop, MO; Steven Byrn of Kirksville, MO; Cindy (Gareth) Van Jaarsveldt of Shady Shores, TX; Lisa (Robert) Athon of Green Castle, MO; Lora (Robert) Robinson of New Bloomfield, MO; Justin (Megan) Coy of LaPlata, MO; and Jennifer (Marc) Wayne of Lee’s Summit, MO. He leaves behind one sister, Betty (Jerry) Thomas of Kirksville, MO; twenty-three grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; and three nephews, all of whom brought great joy to his life.

Since a young age, Jerry was often referred to as “Smiley” by his friends because of his friendly smile. He was a volunteer fireman for the Greentop Fire Department, a lifetime member of the NRA, and an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed raising cattle, hunting, fishing, and simply being in nature. He also loved tinkering with cars, singing, sharing stories, and filling the room with laughter.

Jerry was a devoted member of Bethel Community Church for more than 60 years, where his faith guided his life and the way he cared for his family and friends.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. at Parkview Memorial Gardens in Kirksville, with graveside services to follow at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Marvin Cross will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Bethel Community Church in Jerry’s honor. Donations may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, Missouri 63501.