Jerry McDow, 94, died peacefully on Saturday, November 30, 2024.  He was born December 19, 1929, in Gilt Edge, Tennessee to Benjamin Pryor "BP" and Gladys (Cousar) McDow.

He grew up as the eldest son on a family farm where he helped his father with the daily chores.  He later joined the US Air Force during the Korean War which later brought him to Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota.  He ultimately settled there and made Rapid City his home where he attended and graduated from the South Dakota School of Mines.  As a young man, Jerry obtained his pilots' license and flying was truly his passion and he flew various types of small aircraft over the years.  He and Mary Lou Mueller married and had two sons together: Michael and Sam.  Later, Jerry enjoyed playing the banjo and was in the Black Hills Jazz Band.

He is survived by his sons; Michael and Sam McDow, daughters in law, Cindy and Angie McDow as well as his brothers; David and Reggie McDow, grandson, Sean McDow as well as other loving family members and friends.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and his infant brother.

Family and friends are invited to a funeral service at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m.  Graveside services with military honors will be held at 12:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery.