Gerald “Jerry” Cleave Tapp, 79, of Bernie, Missouri, passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston, Missouri.

He was born on October 19, 1946, to Emmett Tapp and Pauline (Robinson) Tapp in Corona, California.

Jerry enjoyed watching old westerns on TV; he loved his dog, Dixie. Jerry loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren; especially during his final days.

Jerry is survived by one son, Gerrald “Tom” Tapp of Grove, Oklahoma; one daughter, Tracy Tapp of Dexter, Missouri; one step son, Jessie Joiner; one step daughter, Alisa (Sal) Perez; three sisters, Bonnie Blessing, Juanita Clark, and Emma Jo Sterling; five grandchildren, Tana, John “Matt”, Mason, Dylanna (John) Lamons, and Shane; five step grandchildren, Maverick, Justin, Merrick, Alex, and Daniel; five great grandchildren, Makinlee, Kaceton, Ellis who was also Gerald’s birthday twin, Adrian, and Jesslynn; one step great grandchild, Jensen; and several nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Emmett and Pauline Tapp; one son, Jerry Tapp; one brother, Leon Tapp; and two sisters Shirley Bosart, and Maxine Pavalako. A host of family and friends survive.

Celebration of Life will be scheduled for a later date. Fitch-Hillis Funeral Home is assisting with all arrangements.

Condolences may be made online at www.fitchhillisfh.com or on the Fitch-Hillis Facebook page.