Jerome Whelchel was born May 22, 1954 in Gainesville, Ga to the late Lee Whelchel and the late Mozetta Rose Whelchel. He departed this earthly life on Friday, October 9, 2026 at the age of 72. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Moselee Whelchel and Deotrise Whelchel.
He graduated in 1972 from Gainesville High School. Jerome joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church at an early age and he was very active in the Music Ministry as a drummer for most of the choirs. Later, he became a member of Antioch Baptist Church, where he was connected to a community of faith. He was very talented and a good drummer knowing when to play soft, when to hit hard and how to control the volume balance and the ability to make music feel good to listen to.
He will be remembered as a loving, dedicated, kind and caring husband, father and grandfather, who loved his family. His presence will be missed, but his memory will remain a lasting part of the lives he touched.
Jerome leaves to cherish his memories to his loving wife, Beverly E. Smitherman-Whelchel, sons, Raymone (Cindy) Whelchel and Clifton Whelchel; brother, keith ramsey; and beloved grandchildren, Jada Whelchel, Kiaya Reddicks, Treuna Whelchel, and Lakeria Whelchel; and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral service will be held Monday, October 19, 2026 at 1pm at Antioch Baptist Church. Burial will be in Alta Vista Cemetery. Viewing will be held Sunday, October 18, 2026 from 3pm-7pm. Dexter T. Sims Mortuary, LLC, Gainesville, has charge of arrangements