Mr. Jerry Ennis Walden, age 77, beloved husband of Janice Harrell Walden of Soperton passed away peacefully at their home on Sunday morning, January 11, 2026.

Born in Sandersville, Georgia, he was the eldest of two sons born to the late Arthur Burnum Walden and Marilyn Ennis Walden.  He grew up in Mitchell and Madison, Georgia where he graduated high school.  He attended University of Georgia where he earned his degree in Forestry and Soil Conservation.  He remained an avid Georgia Bulldog fan for the remainder of his life.

His father's work brought the family to Soperton where he met his future wife, Janice Harrell.  He and Janice married in 1972, and Jerry became the first agent to represent and bring the State Farm Insurance Company to Soperton.  He remained with State Farm for almost forty years, retiring as an Agency Field Executive.

He was a lifelong outdoorsman; whether it be hunting, fishing, or boating.  He especially enjoyed family time at the lake.  His grandchildren were always the highlight of his day.

Jerry and Janice were founding members of Anchor of Hope Worship Center where he served on the Pastor's Leadership Council.  He also served on the board of the Soperton Housing Authority.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved brother-in-law Darrell Stephens.

He leaves behind his wife of fifty-three years, Janice Harrell Walden, Soperton, GA; their children, Dr. Janica Peavey (Jordan), Dr. Jarrett Walden (Erin), his brother, Andy Walden (Danielle) all of Statesboro, Georgia; grandchildren, Knox, Sophie, Sadie, Kase, Parker, Pierce, Paxton, and Palmer; mother-in-law Evelyn Harrell; brother- in- law, Kirk Harrell; sisters in law, Phyllis Stephens and Marsha Mimbs (Eddy), four nieces, three nephews, and several great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Anchor of Hope Worship Center with Pastor Gilbert Posey, Reverend Milton Thomas, and Pastor Calvin Anderson officiating.  Burial will follow at Westview Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Robbie Byrd, Bill Ford, Will Garner, Bart McLendon, Dustin Mimbs, Eddy Mimbs, Knox Peavey, Parker Walden, and Pierce Walden.

Jerry's family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Anchor of Hope Worship Center, or friends and family may call at the residence.

If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Anchor of Hope Worship Center, P.O. Box 45, Soperton, GA  30457.

SAMMONS FUNERAL HOME