David Jerome Gethers, the oldest child of David A. Gethers and Pola Brown Gethers, was born September 26, 1947, in Berkeley County, South Carolina. He transitioned from this life on August 30, 2017, in West Columbia, SC.

Jerome, affectionately known as "Tiger", began his education in the Berkeley County schools. He attended other schools, including Job Corp, as his military family traveled throughout the United States and abroad.  Being an athlete, Jerome was a wrestler in Munich, Germany. He also was employed as a truck driver in New Jersey.

In 1969, Jerome was drafted and entered the United States Marine Corps. He served his country in the Vietnam War. He received several citations, including: Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Three Stars and Rifle Marksmanship Badge.

Jerome was a member of Mt. Carmel AME Church.  He was married to Helen Ruth Gethers.

Jerome was kindhearted, loving and friendly to everyone he met; he never met a stranger.  "Tiger" will be remembered for his sense of humor and his stylish attire.

Those left to cherish his memory are: two sons, Dave Jerome Gethers (Sarah) of Margate, FL and Trevor Gethers of San Diego, CA; twin grandsons, Phoenix and Quinn Gethers of Margate, FL; stepmother, Evelyn L. Gethers of Moncks Corner, SC; three brothers, Wilbur O. Gethers (Lutrica) of Ladson, SC, Michael Gethers (Margarita) of Ashburn, VA and Douglas A. Gethers (Ruby) of Alexandria, VA; stepbrother, Herman Jenkins (Rev. Yvonne) of St. Stephen, SC; brother-in-law, Herman Byrd of Dayton, OH; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Gloria A. Gethers-Byrd; and nephew, Herman J. "Joey" Byrd.