Rocky Mount -

Gerasimos "Jerry" Harry Pappas, age 85, passed away early Sunday morning, October 13, 2024, at his home in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

Jerry was born on May 22, 1939 in Wilson, NC to Harry and Mary G. Pappas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his twin brother, Lambros "Larry" Pappas; daughter, Helena J. Pappas; cousin, Jimmie G. Lambros; and brothers-in-law, Joseph R. Ellis, James "Bud" Batten, Joseph L. Grimmer, Hubert R. Grimmer.

He is survived by a loving family that includes his wife, Retha G. Pappas; children, Harry J. Pappas (Karen) of Holly Springs, NC, Athena P. Lien (David) of Augusta, Ga., and Melissa B. Beard of New Bern, NC; sisters, Panagiota Ellis and Katania Batten; brother, Demetrious "Jimmy" Pappas (Nancy); and grandchildren, Kristian Lien (Kayla), Brianna Lien, "Gralyn" Maria Pappas, John "Benjamin" Beard, Elsie "Elizabeth" Beard, and "Ava" Claire Pappas.

Jerry was a proud career veteran, retiring from the United States Army National Guard as a Captain, following more than twenty-one years of service. Following his military career, he was a member of the American Legion Post 293 in Nashville, NC. He was also an active supporter of the American Cancer Society, participating in local Relay for Life events for the past twenty-eight years. As a dedicated employee with Boddie-Noell Enterprises, he enjoyed a successful career that spanned over forty years. He was proud of his association with BNE and the many lasting friendships that developed through the years. Jerry never met a stranger and always wore a kind and welcoming smile that couldn't help but make others smile.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at 2:00pm at First United Methodist Church, 100 S Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. The family will receive friends immediately following the service.

Floral tributes are welcome, or memorial donations may be made to: American Cancer Society, PO Box 2438, ATTN: RFL Nash Co, NC, Kennesaw, Georgia 30156 or to the Alzheimer's Association , P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.