February 12, 1998 – July 28, 2024
Staff Sergeant Jerry Lee Betzold, 26, Avon, Ind., passed away on July 28, 2024, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow Marines. He was born in Indianapolis on February 12, 1998, to Jim and Melinda “Missy” (Broyles) Betzold.
Jerry graduated from Avon High School in 2016. Shortly after he joined the United States Marine Corps on August 15, 2016. Jerry proudly served his country for seven years and 11 months. He began as an infantry Marine and worked diligently to become an Infantry Unit Leader and was promoted to Staff Sergeant on March 1, 2024. His decorations include the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, and Sea Service Deployment Medal. Most recently, he was stationed with Tactical Training Exercise Control Group, Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, CA. Jerry’s call sign was 31W, better known as 31 Whiskey.
He was best known for his sense of humor, genuineness, and contagious smile. He never met a stranger and could always make you laugh. At the age of 16, Jerry decided to become an organ donor. Jerry has continued to help others in need by his selfless act and the giving of his gifts to others upon his passing. Jerry’s unwavering dedication and vibrant spirit touched the lives of many. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy of bravery, humor, and kindness will forever be remembered. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to extended family, friends, and fellow Marines who have offered their support during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Jerry. Your sacrifice and love will never be forgotten.
Jerry is survived by his mother, Melinda “Missy” (John Mark) Groover; father, Jim (Amy) Betzold; brothers, John Michael (Kate) and James Betzold; stepsiblings, John Mark Groover II, Jordan (Shawn) Sattler, Caleb Banks, and Ali (Scott) Schaffer; grandparents, Jerry and Sandy Broyles, Melinda A. Betzold, Nancy Groover, and David Martin; and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is preceded in death by grandparents, John N. Betzold, Mary and Gene Herndon, and Lloyd Groover.
Family, friends, and fellow service members will gather for visitation from 4 to 8 p.m. on August 16, 2024, at First Baptist Church Plainfield, 1012 Stafford Road, Plainfield. Jerry’s life will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on August 17, 2024, at First Baptist Church Plainfield, 1012 Stafford Road, Plainfield. Interment will follow with Military Honors at Maple Hill Cemetery, 709 Harding St., Plainfield.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Honoring Our Fallen (honoringourfallen.org) or the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org).
Memories of Jerry and condolences may be shared with the family at thefuneralchapel.net.
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