Gerry Lynn Paylor

Gerry Lynn Paylor, age 70, of Grants Pass, died November 27, 2024 at her home.

Gerry Lynn Paylor, was born in Grants Pass, Oregon on May 14, 1954 to Bill Paylor and Earlene Johnson. Gerry found everlasting peace with the Lord, Jesus Christ, and met Him face to face on November 27, 2024, after a hard fought battle with ovarian cancer.

Gerry attended local schools and graduated from GPHS in 1972, where she was proud to be a Majorette. Married to Kevin Ruska in July 1973, Gerry had 2 children, daughter Dena and son John. Their marriage ended in 1983. She would find her soul mate in Terry Crain but would lose him to a heart attack in 1990.

Gerry spent several years working at Bentwood Furniture before a back injury. She enjoyed cooking and trying new recipes, watching programs on TV, reading, taking daily walks, and visiting with family and friends.

Gerry is survived by her daughter, Dena Love and husband Heath of Grants Pass, sister Debra Sonner and husband Walter of Grants Pass, sister Roberta West and partner Dan of Las Vegas, brother Philip Paylor of Grants Pass, sister Brenda Paylor of Happy Valley, OR, former husband Kevin Ruska of Grants Pass, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, a nephew, Peter Cornejo, and her beloved son Johnny.

Gerry received excellent care through her hospice team. Her family is forever grateful to Nurse Lorraine, caregivers Haley, Katie, Cheyenne, Percella, neighbor Tommy Youngblood, and her favorite two caregivers, Colleen Dietz and Stephanie Hutsell. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gerry's name to Providence Hospice. A celebration of life will be held in the spring at her favorite park.

Please share a memory of Gerry in her guestbook.