Jerome Wellington Kline

Jerome Wellington Kline, 89, of Senoia, Georgia, passed away on April 7, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on October 23, 1936, in Dallas, Texas, Jerome was the son of the late Marian and Harry Byrd Kline.

Jerome graduated from Hillcrest High School in 1954 and later earned a degree from Texas Christian University, where he was among the first graduates of TCU’s inaugural agricultural program in 1960. In 1956, he married the love of his life, Etta Rue, beginning a marriage that would span nearly seven decades. In 1961, they moved to Florida, where Jerome spent several years tending the family ranch on Pine Island.

Jerome built the majority of his career in commercial airline operations, working with National, Pan Am, Trans Air, and American Trans Air. He also held a private pilot’s license and chartered flights for medical transport, parachute jumpers, and as the family pilot for many great vacation ventures. Throughout his life, he owned several small aircraft and never tired of talking about military history and airplanes with anyone willing to listen. He had a deep appreciation for aviation and a lifelong curiosity that made him a joy to talk with.

In 2006, Jerome and Etta moved from Fort Myers, Florida, to Senoia, Georgia, where they spent their golden years in their dream home/town.

Though he was medically unable to serve his country, Jerome was a true patriot who loved the United States of America deeply. He was a proud member of the Commemorative Air Force, Dixie Wing, in Peachtree City, Georgia.

Jerome will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Etta Rue Kline; his loyal dog, Remy; his children, Dana (John) Lindval, Jerri (Tom) Garrity, Mica (Gary) Yeomans, and Gifford (Heather) Kline; seven grandchildren, including Matthew Garrity and Austin Yeomans, who preceded him in death; ten great-grandchildren; and one great-grandchild on the way.

Jerome was a devout Christian, and proud member of Brooks Christian Church. His life was marked by his devotion to faith, family, a love of aviation, a proud American spirit, and a gift for engaging and entertaining others with his stories and knowledge. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him.