Jerry Charles Root, 70, of Panama, NY, passed away suddenly at his home on April 3, 2026.

He was born July 27, 1955, in Jamestown, N.Y., the son of Charles and Alice Root. Jerry grew up in the Lakewood NY area and attended Celoron School and Southwestern Central School. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethel Lutheran Church in Jamestown, NY.

Before becoming disabled, Jerry worked as a skilled Carpenter and contributed to several major construction projects throughout Chautauqua County. Some of his work included the Brocton Prison, New York State Thruway bridge projects, Roger Tory Peterson Institute, and Lakewood Rod and Gun Club. He was a longtime member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and completed Hazmat and other specialized training during his career.

Jerry had many passions, especially riding Harley Davidson motorcycles, traveling to Sturgis, South Dakota. He was an avid hunter who loved the forest and wildlife, with bowhunting being his greatest outdoor pursuit. In earlier years, he enjoyed gardening, often alongside his parents, boating on Chautauqua Lake, and he crafted leather goods for friends and family. He was proud of his Viking heritage. Jerry was a member of the Chautauqua Lake Fishing Association and Lakewood Rod and Gun.

He is survived by his wife, Ava Turnquist; his children, Emily (Jose) Muñoz of St. Petersburg, Fla., Chet Root of Jamestown, NY, and Carly (Jerome) Bucktooth of Salamanca, NY; grandchildren Brady Jordan, Jason Muñoz, Johnathan Muñoz, Josiah Muñoz, Skylar (Phil) Carlson, Charles Root, Jackson Root, Samuel Root, Kayla (Je Karn) Corbie, and Keedin Bucktooth; nine greatgrandchildren; and close family members, Cassandra Henry and Jade McLaughlin.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Julie Young and Jody Henry; his grandson, Jerome Bucktooth Jr.; and his beloved dog, Prinz.

Jerry's wishes were to hold no formal services. A family gathering will take place in June in his honor. Burial will take place later at Sunset Hill Cemetery in Lakewood.

We remember Jerry as a wise, thoughtful, strong man, who loved children and animals.