Gerald "Jerry" Eugene Howlett

Gerald “Jerry” Eugene Howlett peacefully entered into the eternal embrace of his Lord Jesus on December 29, 2025, in Port Charlotte, Florida, with his wife by his side. Born on November 24, 1939, in Quincy, Illinois, to Leonard C. Howlett and Mary Lou (Muffly) Howlett, Jerry grew up with a deep love for working with his hands and a gift for craftsmanship.

Following his graduation from Quincy High School, Jerry began his career at E.L. Smith and Sons. He later joined Gem City Patterns in Quincy, where he became a highly skilled journeyman wood pattern maker. By mastering a craft that required both technical skill and attention to detail, he developed a reputation for high-quality work. This path eventually led him from Quincy to Pekin Patterns, and finally to a long-term role at Tremont Countertops in Tremont, Illinois.

On July 2, 1959, Jerry married Marie Ahern in Palmyra, Missouri. Together they shared 66 years of marriage. Jerry’s legacy continues through Marie; their children, Jerry G. (Melanie), Darren (Melissa), and Angie (Keith) Bucher; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Ted (Barb) of St. Charles Missouri, and was preceded in death by his parents and five siblings (three brothers and two sisters).

A devoted family man, Jerry invested his life in those around him. A resident of Tremont, Illinois, since 1970, he co-founded the family business, Howlett Industries & Specialties Incorporated, in 1987 alongside his wife and their son, Darren. This venture integrated the well-established Tremont Countertops and served the community for over 22 years. Jerry found immense joy in collaborating with customers, contractors, and designers, personally ensuring that every detail of every project was perfect.

A man of deep conviction, Jerry passed the values of faith and hard work down through three generations. He was never too busy to help his family, whether they needed a hand with a hands-on project or a steady heart to help guide their life decisions.

Since 2020, Jerry and Marie enjoyed their retirement full-time in Florida, a place they considered a blessing long before moving there. Escaping the Illinois winters, Jerry spent his time as a neighborhood handyman, finding joy in helping friends and neighbors within their community.

Jerry’s life is summed up in this way: Even in his own personal struggles, he loved the Lord, he loved his family, he loved others and has now transitioned into a new and eternal life with Jesus!

The craftsman is now in the Master's hands!

A celebration of Jerry’s life will be determined at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children's Hospital or Tidwell Hospice House in Port Charlotte, Florida.

Song Title:The Great Craftsman
Written and Produced by: Leader
(Jerry’s Grandsons)

Song audio available under service recordings.

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