Gerald J. "Jerry" Kokensparger, 83, of Newark passed away on October 9, 2025 surrounded by family.

Jerry was born on July 23, 1942 in Junction City, to the late Clarence and Eunice Kokensparger.

Jerry enjoyed a career as barber at Southgate Barber Shop in Heath and later at Wayne's Barber Shop. He was known to greet customers with "How's the world treating you?" and was always prepared with a good joke. In later years he worked at the Ohio Historical Society and then Matesich Distributing. After retirement he spent several years talking with old and new friends as a greeter at the Newark Walmart.
He proudly served in the U.S. National Guard and was an active member of the Heath Sertoma Club for more than thirty years, where he made many lasting friendships and dedicated himself to community service.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Georgine; his children Tod (Karen) Kokensparger and Lori (David) Long; and his stepdaughter Amy Mays (John Plappert). Jerry was a proud grandfather to Jordann (Mark) Rector, Nick Kokensparger, Henry and Emerson Long, and great-grandfather to Everly, Robinson, Quinn and Witten Rector. He is also survived by his brothers Mearl, Tom (Doris), and Ricky (Shirley).

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gilbert; and his sisters, Gloria Burley and Carolyn Wiseman.

Friends may call from 11a.m. until 1 p.m. Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Vensil & Chute Funeral Home | Newark.  Funeral services will be at 1p.m. with Corbin Huffman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mount Carmel Foundation. ( https://donor.mountcarmelfoundation.org/ )