Gerald Autry, age 76, of Covington, passed away Jan. 12. Mr. Autry was a pastor of multiple churches in Walton County for over 15 years, and was a member of Mt. Paran Primitive Baptist Church in Social Circle. An all-around great athlete, he played baseball and basketball under Coach Ronald Bradley at Newton County High School. His athletic talents earned him the privilege to play professionally for the Pittsburgh Pirates, which many would consider a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Mr. Autry returned home to marry his high school sweetheart, Nancy Holifield, to whom he was married for 55 years. He coached for many years in the Newton County Recreational Department, not only coaching his three boys, but also many others on whom he had a very positive influence. Mr. Autry was a loving husband and a very proud father. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie Hurst and Alma Cleo (Towns) Autry.

Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Nancy Holifield Autry; sons and daughters-in-law, Richard Autry of Covington, Chris and Michele Autry of Monroe, Mitch and Jolie Autry of Cincinnati, Ohio; grandchildren, Hadyn, Amanda, Eliana, Gabriel, Nathaniel, Hannah, Samuel, Benjamin, Lauren, Erin, Luke; sister and brother-in-law, Jean (Autry) and Donald Swords of Snellville; brother and sister-in-law, Charles W. and Carolyn Autry of Social Circle; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

A funeral service for Mr. Autry was held at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15, at the Chapel of Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home, in Covington, with Elder Gus Harter officiating. Interment followed in Mt. Paran Primitive Baptist Church Cemetery, in Social Circle. Donations in memory of Mr. Autry may be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Georgia Chapter, 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 550, Atlanta, GA 30346.