Jerry Earl Lane

Jerry Earl Lane, a devout man of faith and a beloved figure within his family and community, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Born on April 20, 1934, in Cushing, Oklahoma, Jerry exemplified a life devoted to service, faith, and family.

Jerry’s early years were marked by a deep commitment to his country and his God. As a young man, he answered the call to serve by joining the United States Air Force, where he nurtured a lifelong affection for airplanes. Following his active duty, he continued his service in the Air Force Reserves for an additional four years. His passion for flight remained undiminished; he fulfilled his dream of becoming a pilot, often taking to the skies on clear, sunny days to marvel at the beauty of God’s creation from above.

Aside from his aviation interests, Jerry found much joy in simpler pursuits. He treasured his time fishing and flying model airplanes, yet it was his mastery of the steel guitar that truly set him apart. Renowned for his skill, he spent countless hours perfecting his craft and was even invited to join a professional band for touring. However, Jerry’s profound love for his family prevailed, and he chose to place their stability and well-being above the uncertainties of a musician's life on the road. Instead, he created a music room at home, where he played with the family band, “The Heavenly Echos” during family gatherings. His music and presence were sources of comfort and joy to all who knew him.

Jerry's career as a minister reflected his unwavering dedication to his faith and his congregation. Retired from ministry, he remained a pillar of wisdom and spiritual guidance to his family and church community, who will deeply feel the loss of his steady presence.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, C.B. and Hattie Lane; his wife, Carol Lane; his sister, Loretta Watkins; his twin brother, Jack Lane; his brother, Robert Lane; and his granddaughter, Amanda Jane Deering.

Jerry is survived by his children: Roger Earl Lane and wife Diane of Stillwater, Anita Mae Watkins and husband Mike Watkins of Agra, Jerry Neal Lane of Florida, and John Blanchard Lane and wife Kelly of Texas. He is also remembered fondly by his siblings Betty Unfred and Frank Lane, as well as by his grandchildren Jerry Deering, James Deering, Katie Lane, Garrett Lane, Brandi Waits, Alicia Deering, Carson Lane, Gavin Lane, Breanna Reese, Myka Lane, Ross Lane, Alison Rossdeatscher, and 17 great-grandchildren who carry forward his legacy.

Pallbearers will be Tristan Deering, Kyler Deering, Gavin Lane, Carson Lane, Jackson Waits, and Zac Deering. Honorary pallbearers Garrett Lane, Noah Branson, Daylen Deering, Ross Lane, Jerry Derring, and James Deering. 

The family will welcome friends and loved ones for a visitation on April 9, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Stillwater - Dighton Marler Funeral Home, located at 5106 N Washington St, Stillwater, OK 74075. The funeral service will be held on April 10, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Perkins Church of the Firstborn, 404 E 92nd St, Perkins, OK 74059, followed by burial at Glenwood Cemetery on Fairground Road, Perkins, OK, commencing at 11:30 AM.

Jerry Earl Lane’s life was a testament to devotion — to faith, to family, and to the simple joys that brought meaning to each day. His memory will endure in the hearts of those he loved and the community he served so faithfully.