Jerry Neal Fast was born January 22, 1937 on his family farm northwest of Fairview, OK, to Alvin and Irma (Schroeder) Fast and passed away on Tuesday, October 11, 2022 at Homestead of Weatherford. He was a beloved husband, father, Papa and friend.  Grandparents, Cornelius H "Neal" and Marie Schroeder, his grandparents, were a loving presence in his daily life.

Jerry was raised and attended school in Fairview, OK.  From first through eighth grade, he attended Golden Valley School and then went on to graduate from Fairview High School in 1955. He was an active member of FFA and served as State FFA vice president in 1955. Following high school, Jerry attended Oklahoma State University for one year before transferring to the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a BS Degree in 1959. While at OU, he met the love of his life, Mary Martin, and they were married on August 20, 1960. They immediately moved to Durham, NC, where Jerry attended seminary at Duke University. He received his Doctor of Divinity degree and became a pastor in the United Methodist Church. Jerry and Mary both served churches in Canton, Lakeside Methodist (Oklahoma City), and Grandfield, OK; making many wonderful life-long friends with church members and fellow pastors.

An opportunity to purchase Reese's Gifts led Jerry and Mary to Weatherford in 1974, where they then opened Pink Turtle Gifts. Jerry would smile as he recalled how happy he was each time he walked into the store for the next 35 years. Rather than a job, he counted the time he spent talking to, and helping customers, as a joy. Many of his customers became lifelong friends.

Jerry was a member of the First United Methodist Church, the Weatherford Chamber of Commerce, and Kiwanis Club, serving in many roles in each. He also served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 355, where both of his sons obtained the rank of Eagle Scout during his time.

One of Jerry's joys was traveling around the U.S. and abroad, with a special love for hiking and fishing in the Colorado mountains.  He also loved teasing and laughing with his grandchildren, singing them many renditions of "Home on the Range", as well as many closely fought ping pong matches adding to the joy.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary; three children and their spouses: Kirk, Scott and his wife Karen; Amy and her husband Dan Sullivan. Seven grandchildren: Sarah Fast, Matthew Fast, Rachael Ruth and her husband Miles, Jack Sullivan, Jonathan Fast, Patrick Sullivan, and Jacob Fast.  He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and one grandchild, Christian.