Jerry Clayton Gladden, 70, left this earth in the early evening hours of April 8, 2021, surrounded by his family at Roanoke Memorial Hospital following a short, acute illness. Born on October 22, 1951, Jerry was raised in Salem, Virginia, and graduated from Glenvar High School.

He is preceded in death by parents James Clayton and Marvel Marie (née Beamer), and several cherished pets that he absolutely did not want but went on to love fiercely. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 35 years, Susan Michele (née Yopp), and two daughters, Summer (with her partner, Randy) and Anna; brothers Jim and Joe with his wife, Camilla; sisters-in-law Karen and Patty; and many nieces and nephews.

He loved music. Jerry was a self-taught musician who spent most of his young adulthood playing bass in rock-and-roll bands, most notably The Truckers Delight, for whom he also wrote a couple songs. He shared his talent with his oldest nephew, Jay, who now plays his beloved Fender bass in his own Roanoke-based bands.

When he wasn't strumming his guitar, he could usually be found with a book in his hand - Stephen King, political non-fiction, Westerns. He was a voracious reader, which is likely the reason he could answer any Jeopardy question a second before the contestant.

He passed these passions for music and books and politics to his daughters. Those who knew him will miss his humor, his wit, his storytelling, and his heart. There wasn't a benefit for a friend he wouldn't jump in to help organize or a cause too small for him to care about.

He did not want anyone to make a fuss over him in death, so naturally, the family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held on July 10, 2021, from 5-8 PM at Parkway Brewing Co. on Kessler Mill Road in Salem. They hope to see you there - maybe, even to hear some of his own words.