Jerry A. "JJ" Zea

Jerry (JJ) Zea, 58, passed away on Wednesday, September 16, 2020. Born on November 30, 1961 in Hammond, IN to the late Lawrence and Clara (Nix) Zea, JJ was a warm and loving man.

JJ was a longtime athlete in the Special Olympics, through the years competing in track and field, basketball, and bowling. Last year he placed 2nd in the state for bowling. He was so excited to compete, and proud of his achievement and medal. JJ enjoyed WWE professional wrestling, Elvis Presley, spending time with friends and loved ones, coloring, and drawing. He was an outstanding artist with a talent for using every color to create his own masterpiece.

JJ will be remembered for his infectious joy, kind heart, strong work ethic and compassion for those around him. His world-famous hugs will be missed by everyone lucky enough to have received them. He loved with no conditions and showed it with no words needed.

He attended New Horizon Fellowship in Evansville, IN and was a resident of ResCare.

JJ was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Karen, Margaret and Sheila; and brother, George.

He is survived by his siblings Larry and Dorothy. JJ will be missed by special family Paulette Walker, Pam Hadley, Cory Hadley-Hayne, Leslie Head, and all of his “Mommas”. His compassionate longtime caregivers Brandy Heck and Leslie Bauer will miss him dearly. JJ’s longtime soulmate Lisa and best friend Michael will forever miss his companionship.

Funeral services will be 2:00 P.M. Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Boone Funeral Home EAST CHAPEL – A Family Tradition Funeral Home at 5330 Washington Ave. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M- 2:00 P.M.

Special family would like to thank the Deaconess Gateway ICU staff, especially Jennifer for her compassion and care during his stay.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Special Olympics Vanderburgh County at PO Box 962, Evansville, IN 47706.

Condolences may be made online at boonefuneralhome.net

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