Jerry Clower, “The Mouth of Mississippi,” Dies at 71

Jerry Clower—born Howard Gerald Clower on September 28, 1926, in Liberty, Mississippi—rose from humble Southern beginnings to become one of the most beloved voices of rural humor. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he earned a degree in agriculture from Mississippi State University and joined Mississippi Chemical as a fertilizer salesman. It was there that his talent for story‑telling flourished—what began as humorous anecdotes to boost sales turned into comedy gold once they were shared beyond the office.

Nicknamed “The Mouth of Mississippi,” Clower’s rise in entertainment was swift. His first recording, The Coon Huntin’ Story, sold over a million copies and landed him a contract with MCA Records. Over his multi-decade career he released 27 albums, became a Grand Ole Opry member in 1973, wrote four books, and co-hosted the radio/TV show Country Crossroads.

Clower’s routines, filled with warm nostalgia and Southern charm—featuring characters like the fictional Ledbetter family—endeared him to countless listeners. Known for his gaudy suits, campy patriotism, and signature backwoods tales, he insisted on using live audience laughter rather than canned tracks, believing it made his comedy honest and heartfelt.

A devout Christian and longtime deacon at the First Baptist Church of Yazoo City, Clower often wove faith into his performances. In 1997, his contributions were honored with the National Football Foundation’s Distinguished American Award, and Yazoo City even named a street in his honor—Jerry Clower Boulevard.

Family life

Jerry married his high school sweetheart, Homerline Wells, in August 1947. Together they raised four children: Ray (born 1953, passed away in 2011), Amy, Sue, and Katy. His family, particularly “Mama” Homerline, often made their way into his stories, adding warmth and authenticity.

Passing

On August 24, 1998, in Jackson, Mississippi, Clower died at age 71 due to complications following heart bypass surgery. His death certificate cites cardiorespiratory failure following the procedure.