Jerome Thomas Bledsoe, 71, of Wheeling, WV, passed away Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth in Youngstown, OH.
He was born September 21, 1954, in Wheeling, son of the late Sebron and Toni Latham Bledsoe.
Jerome retired from the Laborers Union Local 1149. He was a 1972 graduate of Wheeling Central High School, where he was a proud football standout. Throughout his life, Jerome took great pride in boxing and weightlifting. He was also an avid golfer and coach, known to many as “Coach Bell.” He possessed a deep love for music, enjoyed playing the drums, and was well-known for his devotion to his dogs.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Rahzia Gray.
He is survived by his children, Nicole (Roy) Wade, Maurice Coles, and Patria Bledsoe; two stepdaughters, Chevelle Goodwin and Brandy Long; grandchildren, Terrance (Fontana), Taevon, Gioni, K’Veon, Donovan, D’Avione, Brionna, Kyra, Kasin, Khalil, Marquis, and Tyrese; a great-granddaughter, Ava; and his beloved dog, Lady.
Family and friends will be received on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at Kepner Funeral Home, 166 Kruger St., Wheeling (304-242-2311).
