Jewell Deer, 71, of McComb, MS passed away September 8, 2023 at Baptist Hospital in Jackson, MS.

He was born May 5, 1952 in Magnolia, MS to the late William Deer and Mary Tarver Deer.

Jewell was a driver for Southern Tractor John Deere dealership in Summit, MS for over 45 years. He was a Scout Master of Boy Scout Troop 246 at Navilla Baptist Church for 20 years and received numerous awards, including the prestigious Silver Beaver Award. He was also a long time member of Navilla Baptist Church where He served as a deacon, superintendent of Sunday School and member/chair of various committees. Jewell attended North Pike School. He enjoyed gardening and also made and gave away many walking sticks. He loved fishing, hiking, camping and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He was a Pike County Fair Board member for twenty years and an avid supporter of Pike County 4-H Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents William and Mary Tarver Deer; sisters JoAnn Chunn, Irene Beeson and Mary Evelyn Linton; sister-in-law Brenda Deer; brothers in law Red Linton, K. C. Beeson, Albert Wicker, Carey Beeson and Darrell Chunn.

Survivors include his wife of 24 years Judy McGahey Deer of McComb; sons Corey Deer (Monica) of Brandon, MS; Chad Deer of McComb, MS; his daughter Ashley Deer of Tylertown, MS; stepsons Jonathan Howell (Teresa) of Starkville, MS, Matthew Howell of Tylertown, MS, David Howell (Laura) of Baton Rouge LA; brothers Henry Deer (Karen) Brandon, MS, Thomas Deer of McComb, MS; eight grandchildren Carter Howell, Tristan Howell, Jacie Thibodeaux, Mason Deer, Emery Rose Howell, Eli Gonsales, Maddox Deer and Layla Deer. One great grandchild Nola Thibodeaux; along with numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Visitation will be Tuesday, September 12, 2023 from 5PM – 8PM at Navilla Baptist Church in McComb and continues Wednesday from 10AM until Memorial service at 11AM. Rev. Trent Bilbo officiating. Services will be under the direction of Hartman Jones Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Navilla Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be the deacons of Navilla Baptist Church and employees of John Deere.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers please make contributions to Navilla Baptist Church 3130 Old Hwy 24 McComb, Ms 39648.