Jerry Ronald Givens

Jerry Ronald Givens was born on January 27, 1951, in Columbus, Ohio, to the late Charles and Hattie Givens. On Sunday, April 26, 2026, Jerry was called home to be with the Lord. He departed this life surrounded by his devoted wife, children, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.

Jerry was educated in the Columbus Public School system and was a proud graduate of Mifflin High School. Following graduation, he began a long and dedicated career with the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority, where he faithfully served for 41 years before gracefully retiring.

Jerry cherished his family and found great joy in spending time with them. He especially enjoyed watching sports and was a lifelong, loyal fan of the Cleveland Browns football team.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Hattie Givens; his brothers, Wallace Givens, Charles Givens Jr., and Melvin Givens; and his sisters, Shirley Eleby and Janie Broomfield.

Jerry leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 53 years, Janice Givens;; his son, Jeffrey (LonMakela) Givens; his daughter, Jacqueline Givens (DeShawn Smith); his grandsons, Je’Lon Givens and Je’Son Givens; his granddaughters, JeNaiya Givens, Jayonna Smith, and Jayleah Lanier; his great-grandsons, Mason Givens, Jadyn Givens, and Zy’Yon Richards; his brother, David Givens his sister-in-law, Kim Rice; his brothers-in-law, Geno (Norice) Rice and Daryl Rice; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Celebration of Life 12PM Friday, May 8, 2026, in the Chapel of SMOOT FUNERAL SERVICES, 4019 E Livingston Ave., Columbus, Ohio. Family will receive friends 11AM until time of service. Interment, 2PM at Green Lawn Cemetery, 1000 Greenlawn Ave., Columbus, Ohio.  His legacy will live on in the love he gave so freely and the countless lives he touched. Please keep the Givens family uplifted in prayer.

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