Jerry L. Vess, age 76, of Massillon, passed away Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Ohio Hospice Center in Wooster.

He was born September 6, 1949 in Massillon, and was the son of the late Lawrence and Twila (Lehman) Vess.

Jerry served for 2 years in the Navy during the Vietnam Era.

Jerry retired from Republic Steel after 32 years of service where he was an electrician.

He was an avid woodworker and enjoyed making furniture and cabinetry.

Jerry is survived by wife of 57 years, Sheila (Weckman) Vess; son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Neilee Vess; daughter and son-in-law, Amanda and Matt Tietze; grandchildren, Mallori (Rhett) Harris, Brayden (Brittney) Vess, Luke Vess (Callie Proper), Christian (Mazie) Tietze, Victoria Tietze, (Justin Miller); great-grandchildren, Navy Harris, Romy Harris, Graham Tietze, Georgia Tietze, Wylder Harris, and Truett Vess.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry E. Vess Jr.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026 from 10 to 11:30 A.M. at Heitger Funeral Home - Massillon Chapel.

Funeral service will follow at the funeral home and begin at 11:30 A.M.

Burial to follow the service at Rose Hill Memorial Gardens, Massillon.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Ohio Hospice or any veterans group.

Condolences to the family may be made at www.heitger.com

Heitger Funeral Home and Crematory 330-833-3248