Jerry Bean Jr.

NEW PALESTINE – Jerry Bean Jr., age 63, of New Palestine, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at Community Hospital East. He was born on February 9, 1962, in West Plains, Missouri, the son of Jerry and Sarah (Shinn) Bean. He graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1980. Jerry joined the United States Army shortly after graduation, proudly serving in Finance for 21 years. He married Natalie (Merrell) Bean on August 11, 1995. While in the Army, he also served as a Finance Instructor and a Drill Sergeant, which will clarify some things for all who knew him. After retiring from the Military, Jerry got his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and worked for the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). He was passionate about accounting and Military Pay and wanted to mentor everyone in doing the right thing, saving money, and his all-time favorite topic, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Jerry and the family settled in Greenfield, IN, where he immediately immersed himself in the community. He joined the Westin Elementary PTO, even serving as the President. He coached football, basketball, and baseball—too many teams to count. The last one was his niece and nephew's 5-year-old t-ball team, which brought him so much joy. Jerry was an integral member of the development of the Hancock County Veterans Park, working tirelessly to show honor to the brave men and women who served from Hancock County. He loved playing and umpiring softball in addition to his Tuesday night bowling league. When his three daughters were young, they wanted to take ballet class, but he talked them into bowling instead. He loved everyone, whether related or not, and wanted to set everyone up for success. He was tough and stern but really a big old softie. Jerry is survived by his wife, Natalie; children, Stephanie, Melissa, Monika, and Jerry III; parents, Jerry (Peg) Bean; siblings, Jesse (Amiee), Allyson (Shawn), and Jenny; and grandchildren, Jonathan and Ella. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sarah. He was dearly loved by his large, beautiful family of parents, children, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, and one self-proclaimed UNO queen. Jerry taught the kids to be humble and kind and show people who you are by doing great things; they will see your value. He would say there is no need to brag. And he would set the example; after winning a game, he would yell, “THE CHAMPION AND STILL THE CHAMPION!” Visitation will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory, 1484 W. US Hwy. 40, Greenfield, IN. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hancock County Veterans Park, P.O. Box 844, Greenfield, IN 46140. Friends may share a memory or condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com.

Jerry Bean Jr.

February 9, 1962 - February 10, 2025