Gerald E. Beight 1937-2026

Born April 7, 1937, in Youngstown, Jerry was the son of the late Benjamin M. and Mary J. Anderson Beight. He was raised on the O.T. Beight farm in East Palestine and was a proud graduate of East Palestine High School.

Jerry devoted his working life to the steel industry. He began his career at Youngstown Sheet & Tube, where he worked for several years until its closure. He later continued his trade with J & L Specialty Steel in Louisville, where he remained until his retirement in 1997. Jerry was known for his strong work ethic, steady presence and the pride he took in providing for his family.

Outside of work, Jerry enjoyed following his favorite teams and events, especially the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Ohio State Buckeyes and NASCAR racing. Above all, Jerry will always be remembered for his love of telling jokes and making people laugh, a gift he shared generously with everyone around him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his spouses, Jacquelin Joy Shaffer and Linda Schiraldi; his sisters, Patty Gillis and Kay Ann “Kizzy” Campbell; two grandchildren, Ronald Ernest Knight Jr. and Cody Lee Knight; and his son-in-law, Karl Adams.

Jerry is survived by his children, Kathy Danks and her husband, Kip of Poland, with whom he resided, Shawn Beight and his wife, Debra of Dublin, Cindy Adams of Poland, Lorrie Dial and her longtime companion, Robert Wittkugle of Struthers, David Bartholomew and his wife, Carol of San Antonio, Texas, and Cindy Scallin and her husband, Andrew of Holland, Texas. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Jerry’s legacy is one of devotion — to his family, his work, his faith and the simple joys that made his life meaningful. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 5:45 p.m. Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, 270 N. Main St., Poland.

A funeral service, celebrating Jerry’s life, will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home, with Reverend Russ Adams officiating.

Interment will take place in Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

Visit www.beckerfuneralhomes.com to share memories and condolences with Jerry’s family.

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