Jerry Saulsberry

Monte Jerrald “Jerry” Saulsberry, born on October 10, 1931, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2026. Throughout his long and accomplished life, Jerry was known for his dedication to community, his diverse interests, and the deep connections he shared with those around him.

He was a native of Shawnee, graduated from Shawnee High School. He went on to attend Oklahoma Baptist University and received a Bachelor of Science degree in management. He then attended Oklahoma University. Jerry attended the Stone and Webster Course and was past president of the International Association of Refrigerated Warehouses. Jerry retired July 1, 1989, after 33 years of service with Oklahoma Natural Gas and Thermal Systems. He joined the utility as an Operating Clerk in Shawnee in 1956 and transferred to Tulsa, then was transferred to and promoted to manager of the Broken Arrow office. In 1970, Jerry become the manager of Thermal Systems in Tulsa, and in 1986, was named General Manager of Thermal Systems operations in both Tulsa and Oklahoma City. Beyond his personal interests, Jerry was deeply involved in his community. His commitment to civic service was marked by his term as President of the Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce in 1969, where he worked diligently to foster growth and opportunity in the area. He was also member of the Lion's Club. Jerry had a great love of the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, always eager to share stories of his adventures and the camaraderie found in nature. His passion extended to the world of taxidermy, where his skill and attention to detail were admired by many. He enjoyed working with bird dogs, a pursuit that brought him great joy and was affiliated with the North American Rod and Gun Club, where he found a shared sense of purpose and fellowship with others who loved the outdoors.

Jerry leaves behind a devoted family. He is survived by his daughter, Jane Saulsberry-Bishop and husband Russ of Owasso; his sons, Jerrald Saulsberry and wife, Dr. Maura Carter of Birmingham, AL, and Jeff Saulsberry of Broken Arrow; his grandchildren, Dustin Bishop of Skiatook, and Derek Bishop and wife, Ashley of Collinsville, Ashley Saulsberry of UT, and Rebecca Saulsberry of CA; great-granddaughter, Zoey Bishop of Collinsville; and many other relatives and friends. Their memories of Jerry will continue to inspire and comfort them, as will the legacy of integrity, kindness, and curiosity he exemplified throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillie Saulsberry; his parents, Loyd Saulsberry and Leola Pauline (Glamser) Saulsberry; and brothers, John Saulsberry and Bob Saulsberry.

A Funeral Service to honor and remember Jerry was held on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Broken Arrow, OK with Chaplain Goudeau officiating. Family, friends, and all who knew Jerry gathered to pay their respects and celebrate a life well-lived.

Jerry will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him, but his memory and the mark he left on his community and loved ones will endure.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Baptist Village of Broken Arrow Memory Care Center, Iris Memory Care Center in Tulsa, and the staff at Monarch Hospice for being so kind and taking great care of Jerry and his family.

Arrangements and services were entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, Sperry.

Online condolences to the family can be made at johnsonsperry.com.