Gerald L. Tompkins

Gerald L. “Jerry” Tompkins, age 73, of Mill Creek, Indiana, passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday night, September 23, 2026.

Jerry was born on October 1, 1952, in Rensselaer, Indiana, to the late Russell S. and Betty Jean (Collins) Tompkins.

In the spring of 1976, Jerry’s life changed forever when he met Sharon Anne Casteel in downtown Walkerton. What followed was a whirlwind romance, and just two months after meeting, the two knew they had found something meant to last. On July 17, 1976, Jerry and Sharon were married in Mill Creek, beginning a beautiful life together that would span 50 years.

Jerry was an exceptionally hardworking man who believed in showing up, doing his job well, and providing for the people he loved. He spent more than 45 years behind the wheel as a truck driver, rarely missing a day of work throughout his long career. He retired from Smith Ready Mix Concrete in Valparaiso as a driver with the Teamsters Union, Local #135, in March of 2025. His dependability and dedication were not simply qualities he brought to his profession; they were a reflection of the way Jerry approached life and cared for his family.

Approximately seven years ago, Jerry found a renewed relationship with the Lord, and his faith became an important and meaningful part of his life. He was a devoted member of Sauktown Church of Christ in Mill Creek, where he found fellowship, purpose, and a church family that meant a great deal to him. His faith strengthened his already deep devotion to his family and became an important part of the man he was in the final years of his life.

When Jerry wasn’t working, there were few things he enjoyed more than climbing aboard his Ultra Classic Harley-Davidson. He and Sharon shared countless adventures together, traveling throughout the United States with their motorcycle in tow. Wherever their travels took them, a stop at the local Harley-Davidson shop was often part of the itinerary, and Jerry made a tradition of collecting a Harley shirt from the different places they visited. Each shirt became a reminder of another destination, another adventure, and another memory made alongside the woman he loved.

At home, Jerry could often be found enjoying an old Western movie or settling in to watch WWE wrestling on Monday and Friday nights. He was generally a quiet man and never felt the need to fill a room with words. His family knew, however, that when Jerry had something to say, it was worth hearing. He spoke with purpose, and when he did, everyone listened.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 50 years, Sharon Tompkins; his twin children, Gabriel Tompkins (Pam) and Tiffiany Tlahuextl (Aureilo); four grandchildren, Vicente Tlahuextl, Alex Tlahuextl, Gabriella Tompkins, and Lily Tompkins; and his brothers, Donald Tompkins (Cindy) and Russell Tompkins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell S. and Betty Jean Tompkins; and his siblings, Cindy Tompkins, Sandy Tompkins, and Danny Tompkins.

A Celebration of Jerry’s Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Sauktown Church of Christ, 8751 E. 150 N., Mill Creek, Indiana 46365. The family will receive guests at the church from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.

Though Jerry was never a man who needed many words, the life he lived spoke volumes. For 73 years, he showed those around him the meaning of hard work, commitment, faith, and enduring love. From decades spent providing for his family to miles traveled beside Sharon on their Harley adventures, Jerry built a life rich in the things that mattered most. His voice may have been quiet, but his presence was strong, and the example he leaves behind will continue to speak through the family he loved so dearly.