Gerry Rector

Geraldine Tomlinson “Gerry” Rector, daughter of Benjamin “Benny” and Ruth Dean Roderick Tomlinson, was born January 23, 1942 in Crocker, Missouri. She departed this life Sunday, November 27, 2016 in her home, at the age of seventy-four years, ten months, and four days. On April 29, 1967, Gerry was united in marriage to James Rector, Jr., and together they shared thirty-three years of marriage until his passing on May 17, 2000. Gerry was also preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her daughter, Dottie Newland and husband Chris, of Holts Summit, Missouri; four sons, James Rector III and wife Cita, of Orange Park, Florida, Howard Rector and wife Amy, of Jefferson City, Missouri, Jason Rector and wife Clara of Laurie, Missouri, and Benjamin Rector and wife Jacklyn, of Orange Park, Florida; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; her siblings, Charles Tomlinson, of Camdenton, Missouri, Linda LaVanchy and husband Gary, of Greenview, Missouri, Carolyn Adams and husband Jerry, of Branch, Missouri, and David Tomlinson and wife Shirley, of Camdenton, Missouri; as well as a number of nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and many dear friends. Gerry had accepted Christ as her Savior at an early age and was a member of Camdenton Bible Baptist Church, where she also served for many years as the Church Secretary. Gerry spent her younger years traveling with her family and made Camdenton her home following her marriage to James. She had spent time teaching at Immaculate Conception School in Union, Missouri; she had also worked as a nurse’s aide at Windsor Estates as well as a legal secretary for Mrs. Janice Noland and as a bookkeeper for High Brothers Lumber. Gerry had also spent many years as a Teacher/Principal at Camden Christian School and worked tirelessly to make sure her students received the best education possible. In 2004, Gerry was elected as Ward 1 Alderman in the City of Camdenton. She proudly and faithfully served the residents of her Ward until her passing. Gerry was a constant advocate of the Law, Fire, and EMS personnel and devoted a great amount of her time to their causes and always fought for their rights. In her spare time, Gerry enjoyed traveling. She was a gifted artist and singer and a spirited counselor and educator. Gerry was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate her life and accomplishments and will treasure the many wonderful memories she has created for her family and many dear friends.