Jerry Whye

Jerome Theoldore Whye - lovingly known as Jerry once you get to know him - was born on January 14, 1953, in Baltimore, Maryland. Jerry received his high school diploma from Baltimore City College in 1971 and graduated in 1974 from Baltimore Community College with an Associate Degree in Respiratory Therapy. After working at University Hospital in Baltimore, Jerry moved to Middletown in 1978 and joined the staff at Frederick Memorial Hospital in 1984. Over the next four decades, he became a cornerstone of the respiratory care team - saving lives with his skilled hands, calm demeanor, and generous heart. His gift was not just in medicine, but in making people feel seen, comforted, and cared for in their most vulnerable moments. Jerry found his purpose early in life - he had a profound calling to care for others, and he lived out that purpose with quiet heroism.

Beyond his work, Jerry was a man of many passions. He was an avid gardener, who found peace and purpose in the soil. His yard bloomed with the fruits of his labor - vegetables and fruits that he often shared with friends and neighbors. Jerry was a fig tree whisper and he loved handing out watermelons to the neighborhood kids when they got off the school bus. Gardening was not just a hobby for Jerry; it was a form of communion with nature and a way to nourish and connect with others.

He was also a dedicated hunter, enjoying the quiet patience of the woods and the art of the hunt. Hunting brought him both solitude and connection - to the land, to friends, and to a community of fellow outdoorsmen who respected the rhythm of the seasons.

Jerry had a true talent for baking, delighting those around him with homemade pies, cakes, and breads. His kitchen was often filled with the sweet aroma of cinnamon and warm dough, and his desserts were a staple gatherings. Baking was his love language, and he was always quick to offer a slice of something special to anyone in need of comfort or a sweet treat.

Music was the soundtrack of Jerry’s life. He was a wonderful singer with a soulful voice. He loved singing along at church or belting gospel classics at home. He was so tickled when his grandsons took an interest in music and took joy in knowing they that music bug had been passed down and was ‘in their blood’. He would smile and say “they got it honest.”

He was deeply rooted in his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He had a host of cherished friends - many from New Life Church - with whom he shared fellowship, laughter, and prayer. His ties with the men’s group meant so much to him - he was grateful for the unconditional love of the brother’s with whom he could live life.

Jerry was preceded in death by his loving parents, Emily and Earl Whye. He is survived by his children: Angelica Whye, Nathan Whye, and Christina (Whye) Grant, along with his beloved son-in-love Donald Grant. He was a proud grandfather to Aidan and Avery Grant, who gave him the title ‘PopPop’ and brought immense joy and purpose to his later years. Jerry also leaves behind his sister, Deborah Whye, and his niece, Tyreis Brown-Bond, as well as a host of extended family and friends who were blessed by his kindness, wisdom, and humor.

The family extends special thanks to Ron Legore, Eric Brittain, New Life Church, and the many others who have surrounded them with love and support during this time of mourning.

A repass will be held at New Life Church, where Jerry worshipped and found deep community. He will be laid to rest at Resthaven Memorial Gardens, a peaceful resting place for a life so richly lived.

Though he may be gone from our sight, Jerry’s spirit lives on in every garden grown, every song sung, every life saved, and every memory cherished.

Visitation will be held at Stauffer Funeral Home on Sunday July 13, from 2-5pm. A service will be held on Monday, July 14 at New Life Church, starting at 11 am. Burial will follow at Resthaven Memorial Gardens.