Jerry L. Haley

Jerry Lee Haley was born on September 28, 1956, in Arkabutla, Mississippi. He peacefully departed this life on February 18, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri.

Jerry was a funny, outgoing man who was truly the life of the party. Wherever he went, laughter followed. People naturally gravitated toward him — it often seemed like he knew everyone, and if he didn’t, it wouldn’t take long before he did. His warm spirit, bright smile, and big personality left a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Above all, Jerry loved his family. Being a father and grandfather brought him his greatest joy. He cherished every moment spent with his children and grandchildren. His bond with his grandson Donavin was especially dear to his heart — the two were inseparable from the day Donavin was born. They were truly two peas in a pod, sharing laughter, love, and a connection that will forever remain unbreakable.

Jerry was a faithful Baptist who believed in the Lord and carried his faith with him throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mariah Haley-Allen; his brothers, Jake Allen, Leedward Allen, and James Williams; his sister, Carrie McLemore; his son, Marlon Cleveland; his niece, Janet Yarbrough; and his nephews, Marlo and Tevin Yarbrough.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving sisters, Mary Allen and Minnie Williams; his children, Karen Burns (Donzell Burns, Jr.) , Jerry Thomas, Chris Cleveland, DeJuana Smith, Dominique Smith, Ashton Smith, Gabrielle Ae (A-New-Vision Ae), and Malaya Haley; his cherished grandchildren, Donzell Burns III, Devon Burns, Dylan Burns, Ian Thomas, Amara Thomas, Marlon Cleveland, Autumn Cleveland, Derion Lee, Daquan Smith, DayShawn Smith, DayMonte Smith, Ta’Miyah Reevers, Mazziah Harris, Navi Harris, Ashton Smith Jr., Joeann Smith, Aamir Smith, Donavin Ae, Ailana Ae, Matali’i Ae, and Lagilelei Ae; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Jerry’s laughter, love, and legacy will live on through the many lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.