Mr. Jerry Lee "Bear" White of 570B Smallpiece Road, Plains, Georgia, died Friday, March 28, 2025, at the Phoebe-Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia.

The funeral service will be held Monday, April 7, 2025, at 12:00 Noon in the sanctuary of Whole Truth International Ministries in Americus, Georgia.  The burial will follow at the Bethlehem Cemetery in Plains, Georgia.

Jerry Lee White, affectionately known as "Bear," was born on November 22, 1979, in Sumter County, Georgia. He was the cherished son of James Emmett Sims and Ruby Lee Sims. Bear spent his early years growing up in Plains, Georgia, where he joined Cedar Spring Baptist Church as a child, establishing a foundation of faith that would accompany him throughout his life.

Bear graduated from Sumter County Comprehensive High School in 1999. Known for his friendly nature, he was the kind of person who never met a stranger—always making friends wherever he went. His warmth and openness made him a beloved figure in his community.

Bear had a profound love for the outdoors and a remarkable talent for working on automobiles. These passions not only brought him joy but also connected him with many people who shared his interests.

Bear passed away on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the Phoebe-Sumter Medical Center in Americus, Georgia. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, as he left an indelible mark on his community through his never-ending ability to make friends. His legacy is one of love and friendship.

Bear's life was enriched by a large and loving family. Although his father, Emmett, and his brother, Robert Lee White, preceded him in death, his legacy lives on through those he loved and who loved him dearly. He is survived by his loving and devoted mother, Ruby Lee Sims of Plains, Georgia; a very loyal friend who held a special place in his heart, Sherrie Blakely of Plains, Georgia; the children he help raise along away, Zykel, Luke, Shi, Twon, Nisha, and Tae Tae; his loving sisters, Brenda Merritt (Mike) of Plains, Georgia, and Danna White of Americus, Georgia; his aunts and uncles, Sam Sims, III of Plains, Georgia, Mattie &  Joel Turner of Oglethorpe, Georgia, Ethel Sims and Nancy & Henry Harris of Columbus, Georgia; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom he cherished and guided with love.

Bear's impact extended beyond his family. He cherished his favorite cousins—Angel & Givonte, Greg, Elaine, and Tina Sims—and was grateful for the support of his outstanding Uncle Beaver. His life was also enriched by the friendships he formed with  Stanley Harden and Laura Morgan and a host of other relatives and friends.