Obituary: Jerry Wayne “Pete” Leitschuh
Jerry Wayne “Pete” Leitschuh, a cherished member of the Hardeman County community, passed away peacefully at his home in Bolivar on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Born on July 22, 1944, in Grand Junction, Tennessee, Pete dedicated his life to both his family and his career.
After retiring in 2018 from the Hardeman County School system, where he served as a maintenance technician, Pete continued to make his mark within the community. He was a devoted family man who loved spending time with his wife, Kathy Leitschuh, and his daughters, Cheryl Hood and Michael of Arkansas, Kim Ervin of Bolivar, Pamela Leitschuh of Nashville, and Dawn Bennett of Bolivar. His son, Jerry Richard Leitschuh, also of Bolivar, carries forward his father’s legacy.
As a man of faith, Pete was a proud Methodist who lived a life rich in love and happiness. He enjoyed working puzzles and had a passion for sports, including football, baseball, and golf. Those who knew him appreciated his love for video games, as well as the joy he found in hunting and fishing adventures shared with his brothers. Pete’s spirit shone brightly at flea markets and family reunions, where he could often be found enjoying the company of friends and family.
His legacy extends to many grandchildren, including Ashley Henry, Rebecca Gomes, Ben Hood, Kathryn Hood, and Joslyn Leitschuh, along with three great-grandchildren, Kimmrie Henry, Carson Gomes, and Loralei Kate Gomes. He is remembered by his sister, Martha Stewart of Nashville and a host of friends who treasure the memories they created with him.
Pete is preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Willis Leitschuh and Ethel Estelle Pierce Leitschuh, as well as his sisters, Edith Leitschuh and Rena Wilburn, and brothers, Willis, Travis, Roger, Leon, and Dickie. He will forever be missed but not forgotten, living on in the hearts of those who loved him. Memorial contributions in his name may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the ASPCA.
Graveside services will be at the Grand Junction Cemetery on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 1 p.m. Shackelford Funeral Directors of Bolivar is in charge of professional arrangements.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
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