Gerald Dillman Messer, 77, passed away Sunday, January 29, 2017, at Flo and Phil Jones Hospice House. He retired from Emerson Electric. His favorite pastime was fishing every chance he got. Gerald enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening.

He is survived by his wife, Joann, of 56 years; one son and daughter in law, Dewayne and Melisa Messer; one daughter and son in law, Jill and Marion Whitworth; one granddaughter, Bree'Ann Messer; and two sisters, Carolyn Killian and Jackie Ward.

Preceding him in death were his parents, John and Lula Messer; two brothers; and one sister.

The family will receive friends from 5:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, January 31, 2017, at Phillips Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Center Hill Chapel of Phillips Funeral Home with Rev. Jason Eubanks and Rev. Scott Trayler officiating.  Burial will follow at New Liberty Cemetery.