Geraldine "Gerri" Short

Geraldine Short, 90, of Whitehall, Ohio, passed away on January 23, 2026, after experiencing a dramatic decline in her health. She is survived by her sons, Michael (wife Darlena) and Wallace (wife Nola deceased) Jones. Affectionately known as Gee, Mama Short to those who knew and loved her, she lived her life encouraged by the strength that love gives.

Born in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Joseph Smith and Anna Stirrup in 1935, she was the youngest daughter of nine siblings. Growing up, Geraldine expressed enthusiasm through a love of sports and became quite accomplished. She later married Wallace Jones, Sr., and raised their family in Florida. Geraldine also has one remaining sister, Essie Barr (husband Sam deceased), in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. We cherish the loving friendship of Mary Whiten, who was like a sister, and Monya Monroe, who was like a daughter to Mama Short.

Geraldine cultivated a dedicated work ethic that she inherited from her parents, Joseph and Anna Smith, pioneers themselves of the original settling of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. It was her love of family that influenced the kind embrace Geraldine extended to others.

Geraldine and her two kids moved to Detroit, Michigan, seeking more positive economic opportunities. She became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Detroit, Michigan, and returned to Florida to take care of her ailing mother, Anna Smith, a dedicated evangelist who lived to 103. A devoted mother herself, Geraldine remained among family and friends after her mother’s passing before moving to Columbus, Ohio.

A faithful member of the Whitehall Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses since her arrival in 2017, Geraldine inspired those she touched with her warmth and welcoming personality. Her passing marks a memorable moment that will lovingly connect us to personal memories we have shared with her.

Geraldine was blessed to share her love with two grandchildren, Maurice (wife Samantha) and Michele Jones of Sacramento, California. She also has three great-grandchildren, Ella, Anna, and Miles Jones, who live in El Paso, Texas, along with a treasure of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will genuinely miss her.

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure…