Jerry McCumber

It is with deep love and gratitude that we remember Jerry Dennis McCumber, of Avondale Estates, Georgia, who passed away peacefully on November 29th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, faith, and kindness that touched countless lives. He was seventy-seven years old.

Jerry was born in Atlanta, GA, on May 28, 1948, to the late Mr. Ralph Ray McCumber, Sr., and Mrs. Lucile Bennett McCumber. His brothers, Ralph Ray McCumber, Jr., and Alan McCumber, preceded him in death last year.

Jerry graduated from Druid Hills High School in 1966. A talented athlete, Jerry lettered in football, wrestling, and track and field. He received a football scholarship to Furman University and later a ROTC scholarship. Jerry graduated from Furman in 1970 with a degree in Biology.

A lifelong Georgian, Jerry dedicated his career and heart to the betterment of his community. Upon graduation from Furman, Jerry served as a Biology teacher and coach at Avondale High School before beginning a 9-year career with the DeKalb County Police Department, first as a uniform officer and then as a detective, rising to the rank of lieutenant. Jerry began practicing law after graduating from John Marshall Law School in 1980 and continued practicing until a few months before his passing. He was a proud member of the State Bar of Georgia and served the City of Avondale Estates with distinction as mayor, mayor pro tem, and commissioner. His vision for a vibrant, connected community was reflected in his leadership as chairman of the Planning and Zoning Board, general counsel of the Avondale Estates Board, and later as a dedicated member of the Avondale Estates Development Authority.

Faith was the cornerstone of Jerry McCumber's life. As a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Avondale Estates, he served as a deacon and leader of both the Personnel Council and Nominating Council. In recent years, Jerry was a member of Briarlake Baptist Church.

Service was not just a calling but a way of life. For over a decade, Jerry guided and mentored young people through Troop 6, Boy Scouts of America, as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Committee Member. His leadership helped shape a generation of scouts who remember him for his dedication, humor, and unwavering belief in the value of character and community.

An educator at heart, Jerry shared his legal and civic wisdom as an adjunct professor at Clayton State University for over a decade, where he inspired students with his deep knowledge, wit, and genuine care for their success.

He was never one to hold back his thoughts-you always knew where he stood, and he wouldn't have it any other way. His honesty could make you laugh, make you think, and sometimes make you shake your head, but it always came from a place of love. Beneath that straightforward nature was a deep kindness and a heart devoted to his church. He was there whenever something needed mending, someone needed supporting, or prayers needed saying. And often, he showed his care through his cooking. Whether it was a church supper or a gourmet home-cooked meal shared with friends, his food had a way of bringing people together, just like he did.

Those who knew Jerry will remember his sharp mind, fiery spirit, and endless generosity. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor. Jerry was someone who gave of himself without hesitation and led with integrity and honesty.

He leaves behind a community forever enriched by his presence and a family who will cherish his memory always. Jerry is survived by his wife, Cathy; his children, Eric Jensen (TJ), Bennett McCumber (Allison), and Mary Melson (Hunter); his grandchildren, Brad, Ryan, Harper Anne, Quinn, Jay, and Gray; beloved nieces and nephews, numerous grandnieces and grandnephews; several cousins; cherished friends; and his devoted administrative assistant, Janice Nibblestein.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 6, at 1:00, at A.S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home (2773 North Decatur Road), with a memorial service to follow at 2:00. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Atlanta Humane Society at https://atlantahumane.org/