Dr. Donald Lee Jerome, 89, of Swansea, IL, born June 15, 1935, in East St. Louis, IL, died Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, O’Fallon, IL.
Donald was a United States Vietnam War Army veteran. He attended Saint Louis University Medical School and practiced as an ENT physician in the metro area for nearly thirty years. He had been an active member and past president of the St. Clair County Medical Society. Donald loved hunting, boating, hosting friends at his home at Lake of the Ozarks, outdoor activities, and taking care of his lawn. He could always find a reason to celebrate and enjoyed cold beer or red wine with his favorite people. He adored spending time with his family and most recently his great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph E. Sr. and Irma, nee Zwetschke, Jerome; his brother, Joseph E. Jr. (Mary) Jerome; a nephew, Michael Jerome; and a brother-in-law, Donald Fries.
He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Marlene Jerome, nee Fries, whom he married on June 14, 1955; his daughter, Jennifer Jerome; a granddaughter, Kristie (Brett) Rapps; two great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Anna Rapps; two nieces, Lisa (Jack) Hudnall and Michelle (Greg) Render; a sister-in-law, Sandi Fries; and other family and friends.
Memorials may be made to the Belleville Area Humane Society. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Deacon Corby Valentine officiating.
Private entombment with military honors will be at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL.
