Jerri Farmer

Jerri "Lyn" Farmer, of Godfrey, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 17th, 2026, at the age of 65 surrounded by her family. Jerri was born on September 18th, 1960, in Jacksonville, Illinois to Dorsey Burnette and Frances (Howland) Burnett. She graduated from Alton High School in 1978. She married Christopher Farmer on June 11, 1983, at Upper Alton Baptist Church.

Jerri spent a majority of her career as an Administrative Assistant at Adams Development, where she left a lasting impact on her colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends.

She had a love for the ocean and could spend hours looking for seashells. In the summer, she could undoubtedly be found poolside, soaking in the sun. Her greatest joy was found in the people around her. She loved being “Big Momma” and then “G.G.” to every child who crossed her path. She somehow always had exactly enough food for any of the children that ended up at her table. Her legacy in the kitchen will live on in her famous snickerdoodles. Her warmth, compassion, and lively spirit will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She leaves behind a community of family and friends who cherished her deeply.

In addition to her husband, she is survived by 2 daughters and sons-in-laws; Jennifer (Ryan) Schalk of Edwardsville, Oliva (Zach) Edwards of Godfrey, 4 grandchildren; Clayton & Emmett Schalk, Elijah & Noah Edwards, 2 sisters; Sharon Hopkins of Florida, and Doris Merideth of Alton. She also leaves behind many other beloved family members, friends, and countless “adopted” children and grandchildren.

Jerri was preceded in death by her loving parents, Dorsey and Frances Burnett, 1 brother; Kenneth Burnett, and 1 sister; Mary Jane Smith, whose embrace she has now returned to.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton, Illinois on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 10am with a luncheon to follow at St. Mary’s Community Center on Milton Road in Alton.

Jerri’s wish was for her family and friends to celebrate her life with joy. In lieu of a visitation, an open house Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at The Knights of Columbus Hall in Godfrey, Illinois, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. Family and friends of all ages are welcome. Activities will be available for children, and food and refreshments will be provided as we gather to share memories and celebrate Jerri’s life. In keeping with Jerri’s fun-loving spirit, guests are encouraged to leave the black attire at home and instead wear beach-themed clothing, with Hawaiian shirts especially welcomed.

As we grieve Jerri's departure from this world, we find solace in our cherished memories and in the legacy of love and kindness she leaves behind. May she rest in eternal peace.

Obit Provided By:
Gent Funeral Home