Jerry Rae Holloway, born February 3, 1949, in Elk City, Oklahoma, passed away unexpectedly on July 21, 2024, at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was 75 years old.

Jerry Rae Holloway will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, resilience, and dedication to his family, career, and community will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Jerry's life was defined by his unwavering dedication to his family, his passions, and his career. He spent 40 fulfilling years with the University of Tulsa, where he served as the Director of Purchasing until his retirement in 2020. The University was not just a place of work for Jerry; it was a significant portion of his life and career, where he made lasting contributions and forged lifelong friendships.

Born into a family where mechanical aptitude was valued, Jerry's early years were shaped by the teachings of his father, a diesel master mechanic. "My mechanics were the fruits of growing up having to repair things if I wanted my own transportation," Jerry often reflected. His upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the intricacies of machinery, and tinkering skills he would carry throughout his life.

A pivotal moment in his life was meeting a father figure, an engineer with American Airlines and a 1960s National Champion car drag racer. This mentor took Jerry under his wing and taught him things he never dreamed possible in his environment, setting him on a path of mechanical prowess and innovation.  Under this guidance, Jerry learned skills and techniques that surpassed his humble beginnings.

Jerry's love for the outdoors and sports was evident in his hobbies. An avid golfer, fisherman, and boat racer. He found joy and solace in nature and competition. Later in life his biggest joys were fishing and running around with his grandkids, whom he was exceptionally proud of..

Jerry never met a stranger, only friends he didn't yet know.

For 48 years, Jerry was a loving husband and is survived by his wife Vera Holloway, his two daughters, Sarah and Ashley Holloway and his grandchildren, Allie Mae, Addyson Rae, Abbygail Leslie.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held on Monday July 29th, 2024, at Tulsa Country Club from 2-4pm to celebrate Jerry's life and honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the First Tee-Tulsa, 5223 E. 41st St. North, Tulsa, OK, 74115, or www.firstteetulsa.org , which teaches underprivileged youth life skills through the game of golf.

Rest in peace, Jerry.