Jerald Irvin, better known as Jerry Lair, of Monticello, Kentucky was born November 14, 1949 and departed this life Sunday, April 9, 2023 reaching the age of 73 years. He was the son of the late James Irvin and Mary Katherine Polston Lair.

Jerry had a love for those around him like no other. If he liked you, you knew it. And, if he didn't, then well, you probably knew that too. He had a nickname for every child or player he ever came in contact with. He always gave and loved with all he had, but never expected anything in return.

Jerry loved all sports. He coached numerous basketball, softball, soccer, and baseball teams for over forty years. If a ball was involved so was he. He enjoyed playing tennis and softball and loved to fish Lake Cumberland or any other lake for that matter. He enjoyed traveling with Elizabeth as well as taking road trips on his Harley with Chad, Chilton, Jerry, and Claudia.

Along with his family and friends, his love of sports, coaching, and serving others were the joys of his life. He served not only as a coach, but as the President of the Wayne County Little League and as a member of both the Monticello School Board and Wayne County School Board.

He could give advice on anything and everything from family to what to order on a seafood menu to "Why in the world is John Calipari still running that dribble drive offense?!?" and "When is Boone gonna realize he needs more pitching?!?"

We know he is in a better place and is no longer suffering. We imagine he's probably been kicked out of one more baseball game by now. Several of his players will remember when one umpire told Jerry he was going to throw him out of the game if he didn't sit down. Jerry replied, "You can kick me out, but you won't throw me anywhere!"

You've crossed home plate, Big Time, coach'em up!

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Elizabeth Lair, two daughters; Andrea Lair, and Heather (Carl) Bryant, one son; Chad (Heather) Lair, four grandchildren; Alyssa Michelle Lair, Andrew Chadwick Lair, Sarah Katherine Bryant, Jenna Elizabeth Bryant, three great grandchildren; Emmalyn Rae Lair, Sophia Alexis Rua, and Isabel Blake Rua, as well as his aunt Polly Peek and cousins Sparky and Savina.

He was preceded in death by his half-sisters; Gail Vaughan, Cindy Ladner, and Barbara Seamster, and half-brothers; Tracy Rainey, William David Knight, and Michael Knight.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 14, 2023 from 10AM until 1PM in the Hickey Funeral Home Chapel with funeral services following at 1PM. Burial will be in the Elk Spring Cemetery.

Hickey Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.