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CHAMPION - Jerry W. Tribby, 81, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Monday, Oct. 19, 2026.
What a glorious reunion it must have been when he was welcomed into the arms of his Heavenly Father and reunited with his beloved wife, Linda.
Jerry was born Sept. 16, 1945, in Warren, the son of the late Walter and Doris Champlin Tribby.
Originally from Mecca, Jerry returned home in July, making his home with his niece and her family in Champion. There, he spent his final months in the comfort of family, surrounded by love and compassion.
He enjoyed simple pleasures, and some of his happiest days were spent taking drives with family, stopping for coffee, shopping, ice cream and milkshakes along the way. He especially loved Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and was never known to pass up a sweet treat, especially anything chocolate.
He attended Mecca Community Church.
Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War.
He was equally proud of the careers that followed and never missed an opportunity to share his experiences with anyone willing to listen. He began his career with Ohio Edison in 1970 as a lineman and later worked for Nevada Power. He often spoke with pride about his storm restoration work, traveling where needed to help restore power to communities following severe weather and serving others when they needed it most. He also served in several law enforcement agencies, including departments in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Marshall County, Tennessee. Among his many accomplishments, Jerry especially cherished his time in Search and Rescue.
A skilled tinkerer, Jerry enjoyed spending time in his shop, target shooting and caring for his beloved cats, Trixie, JoJo and Sam, who already miss him dearly. Known for his kind heart and gentle nature, Jerry was a sweet man who never met a stranger and loved sharing stories with those around him.
Jerry is survived by his sister, Karen Ceba, of Nevada. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews: Melissa and David Dills of Champion, with whom he made his home; Chasity Sampson of Florida; David and Carissa Tribby of St. Augustine, Florida; Janette Tribby of Florida; Tommy Melton, Paul Ceba and Theresa Scheri, all of Nevada; as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews.
In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Tribby, on May 5, 2026, and his brother, David Tribby.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at Lane Funeral Homes, Shafer-Winans Chapel in Cortland. Family and friends may visit one hour prior to the service.
The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to those who cared for Jerry with kindness and compassion, especially Bruce Smith, his dear friend since the eighth grade; Rhonda Pluta, who lovingly supported Jerry following the loss of his wife; and the caregivers of Hospice of the Valley for their comfort and support.
The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in Jerry’s memory to the National Kidney Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a local animal shelter.
Family and friends may send their heartfelt condolences by visiting www.lanefuneralhomes.com.
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