~ Please note the time change for the service on Saturday, August 1, 2026 ~

Jerry Thomas Womack, 67, of Lynchburg, Va, passed away peacefully at home on July 25, 2026 surrounded by his family. Jerry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, son, firefighter and friend.

Jerry was born on April 9, 1959 at the Womack Army Hospital in Fort Bragg, NC, to the late Ryland and Maybelle Womack.

He graduated from Appomattox High School and then began working for The Carpet House. Later he became known as the “cracker man” as he worked for Lance, Inc., for the next 23 years. Following this, he became a representative for Atlantic selling fire and rescue vehicles. During the last 17 years of his career, Jerry devoted his time to Southern Landscape Group where he served as a yard foreman.

Jerry loved his community and dedicated over 35 years of honorable service to the fire department. His passion for firefighting developed during his early years at Darlington Heights Volunteer Fire Department where he served for 3 years. He continued his fire service with Concord Volunteer Fire Department where he served for 5 years. He moved to Lynchburg, Va in 1990 and joined the Brookville-Timberlake Volunteer Fire Department. He was a member there for over 30 years, serving 14 years and 8 months of that as chief. As chief, Jerry was known for his calm leadership, unwavering dedication, and willingness to put others before himself. He was also a fire instructor for over 35 years. Jerry's commitment to serving others left a lasting impact on countless lives.

While not at the fire station, Jerry was an avid Nascar fan. He spent every Sunday morning at church, and every Sunday afternoon watching the race. He traveled to Martinsville, Va twice a year to volunteer his firefighter services to the Nascar pit crews. Jerry loved to hunt and golf whenever he had a free moment. He was faithful to Christ, and helped in the sound booth at church every week. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, making others laugh, homemade ice cream, and a good fried bologna burger.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lisa, and his children, Jessica Painter (Matthew) and Dustin Womack. He was a proud Papa to Jordan Craighead and Carson Painter. He is also survived by his sister, Tammy Coleman, and many extended family members, fellow firefighters, and dear friends.

The family would like to thank Heartland Hospice for their unwavering support to the family during this difficult time. They would also like to thank the caregivers who devoted their time and love to Jerry; Dominique, Melissa, Angel, Emily, Megan and Kelly.

The family will receive friends on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 220 Breezewood Dr, Lynchburg, Va. A service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held Saturday, August 1, at 4:00 p.m. at Tree of Life Ministries, located at 2812 Greenview Dr, Lynchburg, Va.

Jerry's legacy of bravery, kindness, and selfless service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Brookville-Timberlake Volunteer Fire Department or Calvary Baptist Church.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.