Jerry Van Young, 78, of De Soto died Sept. 15, 2025, at Jefferson Barracks VA Medical Center in St. Louis. Mr. Young served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and later worked as an independent truck driver. In 1988, he and his wife moved their family to De Soto, where he managed a timeshare resort, Jefferson Resort. After retirement, he raised chickens, a stray dog and a couple of cats. He enjoyed feeding deer and birds, mowing the lawn and picking up limbs and going to Walmart every Monday morning. He was known as a one-of-a-kind guy who enjoyed a good party and loved spending time with friends and family. Born June 22, 1947, in Harrison, Ark., he was the son of the late Eunice (Wear) and Joe Young.
He was preceded in death by his wife: Shirley (Stillwell) Young.
He is survived by two sons: Ashley (Lisa) Young and Michael “Rancher” (Miracle) Young; a daughter: Jessica (Steve) Young; four grandchildren: Grayson and Emma Young and Elo and Aiden Bauer; a twin sister: Judith Casey; a brother: Ernest Young; a niece: Kim (Randy) Gilley; two nephews: Simon (Jennifer) Young and Chris (Linda Jo) Casey; and his in-laws: Sandra (Stillwell) and Glen Holley.
He also was preceded in death by a brother: Donald Young; and many other family members and friends.
A graveside service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Arrangements are under the direction of Chapel Hill Mortuary-Robert Brown Chapel.