Jerry Doyle McCullough, 84, of China Grove passed away at home August 26 after a period of declining health.

Jerry was born to Paul and Hattie Mae Smith McCulloh in 1942 in Davie County. He grew up in the Redland community and graduated from Davie County High School. At 15 years old, he met Joyce Jones, whom he married in 1963.

Jerry was truly a force of nature: an unforgettable character who left an impression on all who met him. He was a real-estate investor and an entrepreneur. He owned several successful businesses during his life—most notably, Jerry’s Lounge in Kannapolis. He told the story of driving to New York City to bring one of North Carolina’s first “disco balls” back to the Lounge. Former employees and patrons remember Jerry’s as “the place to be” during the decades it was in operation. During those years, Jerry provided not just employment, but made life-long friendships with those who worked for him as well as with customers. Even after retiring from the business, Jerry never stopped being curious about people and businesses and could be found holding court and telling stories, including at the bar in the historic Jekyll Island Club. He had a passion for poker, found peace mowing lawns, was fascinated by history, and loved to try different restaurants, especially “mom and pop” establishments. He was a man of many talents and had quite a following of devotees. Jerry had a soft spot for animals, as well as for people and is remembered for having high expectations of those around him. He is also remembered for stepping up to be a “dad” figure and a quietly supportive family member for many years, giving advice that proved extremely valuable.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his daughter, Shelia. He is survived by Joyce, his wife of over 63 years; his son, Jim; his brother Tim and wife Trish, and niece Haley. Also left to remember Jerry and to repeat his one-of-a-kind quotes, smile, and tell stories about his adventures are brothers and sisters-in-law, a number of nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Those who wish to make donations in Jerry’s memory may contribute to the Shelia McCullough Memorial Scholarship. Memorial donations should be made payable to UNC Charlotte Foundation and mailed to The Office of University Development at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, NC 28223-0001. Please write “Shelia McCullough Memorial Scholarship” on the memo line. To make your gift online, visit http://www.uncc.edu/giving. Please select “Other” as the gift designation and type Shelia McCullough Memorial Scholarship as the description.

The family will hold a private celebration of life.