Jerry Thomas “Mayor” Pherigo passed away on May 11, 2026, at the age of 76.

Jerry was born on March 30, 1950, in St. Louis to the late Wilbur Troy Pherigo and Glady Virginia Pherigo (née Young).

Jerry was united in marriage to Helen Faye Mohr on December 2, 1967, at Bellefontaine Neighbors Baptist Church and they celebrated 58 years together. Together they were blessed with three children: Missy, William, and Virginia.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1971. After returning home, he began a long career with McDonnell Douglas as an Expeditor and Quality Controller, retiring after 37 years of dedicated service.

Jerry faithfully served the Truesdale community as a village trustee and later became the first mayor after Truesdale became a fourth-class city. He was proudly known as one of the original “Truesdale outlaws.”

In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed spending time on the golf course. He treasured every moment with his family and loved taking them out to enjoy meals at different restaurants.

Jerry is survived by his beloved wife, Helen Pherigo (née Mohr) of Truesdale; daughter, Missy Bachamp of Truesdale; son, William “Bill” Pherigo of Warrenton; sister, Mary Lou (Ray) Rainwater of Truesdale; brother, Hal Pherigo of Truesdale; granddaughter, Virginia Nicole “Nicky” (Joey) Bachamp-Crance; grandson, Cordell Thomas (Gemma) Bachamp; and two great-granddaughters, Avigail June Bachamp-Crance and Jolynn Faye Crance.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Virginia Mae Pherigo; and siblings, Margaret (Tootie), Connie, Bonnie, and Dallas Pherigo.

Jerry’s kindness and good-hearted nature will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, especially the Truesdale community. 

 

Memorial donations can be made to Oak Grove Cemetery in care of Pitman Funeral Home P.O. Box 126 Warrenton, MO 63383.