Jerry Walter Presson

Jerry Walter Presson, age 88, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, at Baptist Health Heart of Hospice in Fort Smith, Arkansas. He was born on April 7, 1937, in Hartford, Arkansas to Ollie Burton Presson and Violet Bessie (Pevehouse) Presson. Jerry was a talented handyman who was rarely idle. Whether constructing something new or making repairs, he found purpose and satisfaction in staying busy.

Over the years, he started several small operations, with the highlight of his business career being the reinvention of Shorty’s Tamales, alongside his brother, Tommie.

Jerry’s creativity and talent was featured in Entertainment Fort Smith in March 2003 for his tamale-making expertise. He continued with ideas of how to grow the business by decorating his tamale stand with his signature red and yellow colors, as well as filling it with vintage memorabilia, stickers, and unique items that helped make Shorty’s truly one of a kind, preserving the history of the original Shorty’s, who sold their first order back in 1938. (See Tribute Wall for additional information).

Jerry was also featured in the local newspaper on June 9 of 2000 for his handy work in building a “12×16 mansion” tree house for his grandchildren at his mother’s residence in Fort Smith.

Known for his charisma and quick wit, Jerry was a natural jokester who brought smiles and laughter wherever he went.

He is survived by the mother of his children, Dianne Huhtala Presson; his children, David Presson and wife Kathy; and Melody Van Matre; and eight beloved grandchildren: Melinda Schlehlein, Sarah Bradberry, James Presson, John Presson, Gerald Presson, Stetson Van Matre, Brianna McKinney, and Jessiah McKinney; and his step-grandchildren, Corene McKinney, and Ashley McKinney.

Jerry was also blessed with more than twenty great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews: Patti McCutchen and her late husband, Glen; Marsha Presson, wife of the late Harry Presson; JP Wickett and his wife; Cindy Johnson; Karen Jensen and her husband; Barry Presson and his wife; and Howard Norman, husband of the late Dana Norman. His legacy continues through many great-nieces, nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie and Violet; two daughters, Sabrina McKinney Presson and her husband James McKinney, and Robin Rene Presson; siblings, Ollie Presson, Tommie Presson and wife Martha, Patsy Wickett and husband John Perry, and Bobby Presson; niece, Dana Norman; and nephews, Stewart Presson and Harry Presson.

A private service will be held by the family at a later time. Cremation is under the thoughtful direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel.

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