Wise, Va.-Jerry Arthur McCracken, 82, passed away on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 following a lengthy illness.
Jerry was born in Wise County, VA to the late Gladys Irene and Arthur “AV” McCracken. Jerry was a graduate of Appalachia High School, following his graduation he enlisted in the US Army. Jerry, along with his former wife Patricia, and family members Eloise and Ralph, were the owners of Dujays Pizza in Big Stone Gap. Jerry was a valued employee of Westmoreland Coal Company and after their closure, he worked as an OTR driver for JB Hunt and Ozark Trucking Company. Jerry was a proud member of UMWA.
Jerry was an active member of his church and served as a deacon at First Christian Church in Big Stone Gap for several years. Prior to his illness, he spent many hours volunteering at the food bank and leading Bible study.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the mother of his children, Patricia (Pat) McCracken, his daughters, Jamie McCracken and Abigail McCracken , and his son Charles (Charlie) McCracken .
He is survived by his sons, Donnie Gilbert and wife Kathryn of Seven Valleys, PA and Jeremy McCracken and wife Erin of Wise, VA; grandchildren, Adam Gilbert, Mariah Gilbert (Ryan), Harrison Gilbert (Natalie), Amanda Vallies (Mike), Connor McCracken (Taylor), and Blake McCracken; great-grandsons Bradley, James, and Hayden; and lifelong friends Freddie and Polly Clark and Wayne Garrett.
A private memorial service will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank Dr. Kumar, Dr. Basham, Heritage Hall in Wise, The Laurels, and Norton Community Hospital for the excellent care Jerry has received for the past several years.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests you make a donation to your local food bank or MEOC Children's Advocacy Center, P. O. Box 888, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219, in honor of Jerry.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the McCracken family.
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