Gerald M Epps

Jerry was born on July 20, 1960, in Thomasville, North Carolina, to Jean and Lee Epps. He spent his early childhood in Greensboro before moving to Charlotte in 1972, where he graduated from Olympic High School.

Jerry’s career began in restaurants. In 1994 with his wife as his partner, he founded Apothecare Inc. He owned Apothecare for 12 years, being a bridge between hospitals and patient homes, helping families get through difficult times. Apothecare played a meaningful role in the region’s healthcare system, helping patients receive high-quality care with dignity and comfort at home through his leadership.

Jerry had a passion for basketball, was a coach and competitor. For almost 20 years, he would play basketball on Monday nights with a smile that could was welcoming to everyone. Jerry was a dedicated Scoutmaster for The Boy Scouts of America who was viewed as a mentor by many young men. “Assisting Mr. Epps” was considered a humorous adventure to the scouts, as they learned the magic behind his cooking. Jerry was a member of Village Baptist Church for more than 20 years, serving on the finance committee and anywhere else he was needed.

Jerry was a man of family traditions. Fireworks were essential for 4th of July and New Years Eve, he was always sure to source them from South of the Border. Over the years, annual Myrtle Beach trips included visits to The Pavilion, winning at mini golf, along with getting kicked out of NASCAR SpeedPark, but eating at the Hard Rock Cafe was a necessity that he never missed. The most important tradition of all to Jerry was Thanksgiving. Jerry enjoyed seeing the entire family under one roof and witnessing its expansion.

Jerry was married to his beloved wife, Martha, for 32 years. He was a devoted father who shaped strength and character in his children. Recently, he embraced the role of grandfather with excitement and joy. He would talk about the stories and adventures he had planned for the two of them.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Martha Epps; his children, Anne Michael Epps Naval (Phillip Naval), Daniel Epps (Itzel Avila Hermosillo),; his grandson, Benicio Epps Avila; his mother Jean Epps; and his siblings, Kimberly Bird (Daryl Bird), Tammy Little, Michael Epps, Jennifer Barbee (Shane Barbee), Eddie Epps (Kimberly Epps), and Ricky Epps. He was preceded in death by his father, Lee Epps.

A service will be held on March 7, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Village Baptist Church, 906 S McPherson Church Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28303, followed by a reception.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations may be made to Village Baptist Church in Jerry’s memory.

Jerry will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.