Jerry Curtis Bair

Jerry Curtis Bair, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and faithful disciple of Jesus Christ, returned home to his Heavenly Father on July 17, 2026, surrounded by his family. He lived a life marked by quiet service, unwavering faith, and an uncanny ability to make everyone around him feel loved.

Jerry was born to Hyrum Virgil and Mildred Mae Bair, the fourth of five boys in a home where hard work, service, play, and faith were part of everyday life. He learned how to play a hide-and-seek game of “bear” with his father and continued the tradition with his own children and grandchildren. Growing up, he was the kind of boy who was competitive, mischievous, and all boy. If you want to know the stories… just ask us. Those early years taught him self-reliance, a love for service, and a deep love for his country. The discipline, compassion, and optimism he developed during those formative years became hallmarks of his life, influencing his career, his family, and the countless people whose lives he quietly touched.

Jerry met the love of his life, Kathryn, and what began with a meet-cute at a high school Valentine's sweetheart dance grew into a devoted marriage that spanned more than 60 years. Jerry and Kathryn were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple, where they began the eternal partnership that would bless them with a loving family, enduring faith, and more than five decades of shared memories. Following high school, Jerry attended Brigham Young University. After graduation, he accepted a commission as an officer in the United States Air Force. His service took him and his family to assignments throughout the United States and to South Korea, where they embraced new experiences and formed cherished memories along the way. For 20 years, he served his country with honor, integrity, and quiet dedication, retiring with the rank of Major.

Together, Jerry and Kathryn built a home where everyone was welcome, faith was lived daily, and fun, exploration, and laughter were never in short supply. They raised six children, who were a great source of pride, and later delighted in spoiling their grandchildren with smiles. The grandkids could always count on Grandpa for a bowl of popcorn, going “round and round” with the ceiling fan, and reading a book. He showed his love through quiet acts of service—through ministering to church members in many different callings. Above all, he was a faithful husband, a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love made every child and grandchild, and great-grandchild feel like they were his favorite.

Jerry's faith in his Savior, Jesus Christ, was the steady foundation of his life and the quiet influence behind everything he did. His testimony was not expressed through grand gestures, but through consistent discipleship, humble service, and an unwavering devotion to his family. He found great joy in family history work, believing that connecting generations was a sacred responsibility and a lasting expression of love. Jerry had a deep love for sacred music and faithfully sang in his ward choir throughout his entire adult life. The temple held a special place in his heart, and for many, many years he faithfully served as an ordinance worker in the Jordan River Temple and in a permanent, monthly sealing group. His ordinance work was a calling he treasured deeply, and even as his health began to decline, one of his greatest concerns was that he might no longer be able to continue serving there. His love for the house of the Lord never diminished, and his example of quiet faith, steadfast service, and enduring testimony leaves a legacy that will continue to bless his family for generations.

Together, Jerry and Kathryn answered another call to serve by accepting an inner-city mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They treasured the opportunity to minister side by side, forming lasting friendships and sharing Christlike love with those they served. It was a season of service that deepened their faith and brought them great joy.

Jerry is lovingly remembered by his eternal companion, Kathryn, whose love and devotion were the greatest blessings of his life. He is also survived by his children: Brenda (James) Hess, Cynthia (Doug) Lloyd, David (Robin) Bair, Linda (Darin) MacLeod, Angela (Jeff) Davis and Michael Bair; his 16 cherished grandchildren and 17 beloved great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his brother, Teddy Bair, along with extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness and example. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hyrum Virgil and Mildred Mae Bair; his brothers, Virgil, Bruce, and Ronnie; and his precious granddaughter, Tailyr, all of whom he looked forward to embracing again.

Jerry had a way of bringing joy to everyday moments. His family will always smile when thinking of his funny T-shirts, his unmistakable mischievous grin, his artistic talents, his love for his dogs, and the annual Christmas village that somehow grew a little bigger and more impressive each year. We cherished the time we spent with him watching rom-com movies and helping him with puzzles, and watching his beloved BYU football team. We will never forget his one-liners. These simple joys were more than hobbies— they were glimpses into the creativity, humor, and love that made him so memorable.

Our hearts deeply ache at his absence, but we find comfort in the Savior’s promise that families can be together forever. During Jerry’s final moments on earth, we were blessed to witness one last gift from our “Pops”, a trademark comforting and mischievous smile that crossed his face—a smile that seemed to reflect peace, joy, and perhaps even a glimpse of the reunion awaiting him. We wondered who came to usher him back home. We are grateful for the example he leaves behind and look forward with hope to the joyful day when we will be reunited again.

Family and friends are invited to join us for a viewing and open house on Saturday, July 25th, celebrating Jerry’s life from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. at the South Jordan Utah Country Park Stake Center, 2447 W 11400 S, South Jordan, Utah. A light continental breakfast will be served as we gather to visit, share cherished memories, and honor the life of a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. A private graveside service will follow.