Robert Gerald Cromer

In Loving Memory Robert Gerald Cromer September 14, 1944 - April 25, 2026 Robert Gerald Cromer, lovingly known as Gerald, passed away on April 25, 2026, at the Community Hospice Center for Caring at Baptist Medical South, leaving behind a life rich in dedication to family, craftsmanship, and simple joys. Gerald was born in Ocilla, Georgia, and raised in Tifton, Georgia where he graduated from Tift County High School in 1962. In his early years, he worked alongside his father in painting and auto body shop work, developing the strong work ethic and hands-on skill that would define much of his life. He later served as Supervisor of Food Services at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College before pursuing his entrepreneurial spirit. Gerald became a self-employed business owner and fastener specialist, operating Kustom Koatings Specialty Fasteners. Above all, Gerald was a devoted provider and caregiver. He found his greatest happiness in serving others-especially his family. He was well known for preparing Sunday meals and baking pound cakes and cobblers for his children and grandchildren, creating traditions that will be cherished for generations. Gerald had a deep appreciation for creativity and craftsmanship. He was an avid guitar collector, as well as a songwriter and artist who enjoyed building and playing guitars. He also had a passion for restoring older model cars and attending car shows. In his quieter moments, he enjoyed watching SEC football, cheering on the Atlanta Braves, and spending early Saturday mornings antiquing. Gerald is preceded in death by his parents, Robert L Cromer and Geneva Whitley Cromer. He is survived by his two children, Donna Cromer Cowart (Shane) of Saint Augustine, Florida, and Duane Cromer of Tifton, Georgia; three grandchildren, Ryan Barber, Kendra Hall, and Reed Cromer; and one great-grandson, Hudson Cromer. He is also survived by his brother, Donald P. Cromer, and his sister, Delores Marchant, both of Tifton, Georgia, and his lifelong good friend , Lindsey Evans of Tifton, Georgia. Gerald was a faithful member of Victory Baptist Church in Tifton, where he found community and fellowship. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at Victory Baptist Church in Tifton, Georgia, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Gerald will be remembered for his generosity, his steady presence, and the love he poured into his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he created.