Jerry D. Holliday

Jerry D. Holliday, 78, a longtime resident of Neodesha, Kansas, died Sunday, January 26, 2014 at Golden Living Center in Neodesha. He was born May 30, 1935 in Goff, Kansas, the son of Harley O. and Lily (Baker) Holliday. He was a 1953 graduate of Neodesha High School and a 1957 graduate of Kansas State University where he received a bachelor"s degree in architectural engineering. On June 1, 1955 in Wheeling, West Virginia, Jerry was united in marriage to Betty Holliday. She survives at their home. In addition to raising their own children, Jerry and Betty also opened their home to 17 foster children. In 1962, Jerry founded The Contractor"s Engineer, Inc. and the business became the 6th company in the state to be licensed by the Board of Technical Professions. He held Professional Engineer licensure in numerous states and was recognized as a leader in design, sales and fabrication of large custom concrete forms in North America. After more than 40 years, he sold his business but continued to work from home until 2011. While a student at K-State, Jerry was involved in student government for two years. He was a member of Steel Ring, a national honorary engineering society. Jerry was a member of the Verdigris Valley Christian Fellowship in Altoona and had also been a longtime member of the High Prairie and Neodesha United Methodist Churches. Throughout the years, he had served as president of the local, state and Parsons District United Methodist Men"s organization. He was a lay witness coordinator and worldwide missions coordinator for many years. He helped to design and build six churches in various parts of the world. In 2013, at his 60th class reunion, Jerry was named Neodesha High School Alumnus of the Year. He was also a longtime member of the Metro Club in Neodesha. Jerry was involved in many local projects, including designing the mural on the front of the Neodesha High School football stadium. In addition to his wife Betty, Jerry is survived by: Five children: Chere Parker of Broken Arrow, OK Michael Holliday of Osborne, KS Dee Rush of Manhattan, KS Tamm Masoner of Castle Rock, CO Ashley Holliday of Fredonia, KS One brother: Robert Holliday of Ozawkie, KS Grandchildren: Jon Parker, Hannah Parker, Brad Holliday, Zach Holliday, Kira Harnage, Kody Osburn, Tyler Underwood, Blayn Masoner, Brandon Bennett and Shawn Bennett Great Grandchildren: Klaire Harnage and Chevy Ann Bennett He was preceded in death by his parents, Harley and Lily Holliday; his brother, Harley Junior Holliday; and a grandson, Daniel Parker. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at the Verdigris Valley Christian Fellowship in Altoona with Pastor Jim Raymond officiating. Burial will be in the Altoona Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 28, 2014, 6:00 P.M.-8:00 P.M. at Timmons Funeral Home. A memorial has been established in Jerry"s name with the Verdigris Valley Christian Fellowship and contributions may be sent to the funeral home. Words of condolence may be left on this website. Timmons Funeral Home, PO Box 168, Fredonia, KS, 66736, is in charge of the arrangements.