Jerry Carson Dykes

Papaws hold our hands for a little while, but our hearts forever.

Jerry Carson Dykes, 81, of Surgoinsville,  TN, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2025.  Born and raised in Rogersville and a graduate of Rogersville High School, Jerry was drafted into the United States Army in 1966.  Upon completion of basic training, Jerry was sent to Munich, Germany and was promoted to Sergeant E5.  Upon discharge from the Army, Jerry began working at the Tennessee Department of Transportation in various roles throughout his career.  He retired from TDOT after 44 years of service.  Since retirement, Jerry has enjoyed farming, raising cattle, his morning coffee from McDonalds,  and spending time with family.  He enjoyed watching the Tennessee Vols and Lady Vols.  He was always present to support his grandchildren’s activities and didn't miss a dance recital, a Dobyns-Bennett Band halftime show, and travel baseball games.  

Jerry was a loving husband, father, Papaw, and friend.  

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Carson and Lurlie Dykes; brothers, LeRoy, Lester, LC, and Chester Dykes;  and sisters Emily Mullins, Rosella Faulk, and Mary Housewright.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Cathy Presley Dykes; daughter Tina McMurray and her husband, Chad; grandchildren, Carson and Caylee McMurray; brothers, Leo and Randall Dykes; great niece, Chelsea Linger and family;  close friend, John Sandidge; several nieces and nephews.  Jerry was loved and highly regarded by the Presley family.  

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Lori Correll, Nurse Practitioner, and Geneva Lyons, RN at the VA Rogersville Clinic for the loving care they provided to Jerry.  

In honoring Jerry’s wishes, the family will host a graveside service at the VA Mountain Home on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at 2PM.  

Carter-Trent – Church Hill is serving the Dykes family.