Jerry H. Rifner

Jerry H. Rifner, 82, of Minier, passed away January 18, 2024 at the Arc in Normal, IL.
Cremation rites have been entrusted to Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home. A memorial visitation will be held from 4-6 PM Friday, January 26, 2024, at Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home. Memorial services will follow at 6 PM with Pastor Larry Crawford officiating. Private family burial will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Jerry was born January 13, 1942, in Indianapolis, IN., the son of Vollie Rifner Sr. and Dorothy (Leonard) Rifner. He married Reita Rickord on August 15, 1971. He graduated from Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis, IN., Indiana University, and received his master’s degree in education from Illinois State University. He taught at Dee-Mack for more than 30 years. Jerry also taught at Stanford and Mclean-Waynesville and was instrumental in starting Olympia High School. He was a hard worker, but in his down time he enjoyed painting, golf, ping pong, basketball, and being a member of the McLean Jaycees.

Jerry loved his family tremendously and enjoyed spending every moment he could with them. Survivors include: his wife Reita Rifner; children: Brad (Laura) Rifner, Brigette (Tim) Carruth, and Brandi (Darin) Clements; grandchildren: Buck (Jessica) Rifner, Chase (Brianna) Carruth, and Cameron Carruth; great grandchildren: Lauren, Bella, Carter, Parker, Emma, and Nolan; brother Vollie Rifner Jr. “Bud,” brother Phil Rifner, and sister Georgie Sue Rifner. Several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Fred Rifner, and son Barry Rifner.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Indiana Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Indiana University, 355 W. 16th Goodman Hall Suite 4100 Indianapolis, IN 46202.