Jered was born in Jackson, KY on November 4, 1979 to Jerry Little and Diane Little (Salyers). Jered grew up in Jackson and, because of his intellect, hard work, and the support of Jerry and Diane, became valedictorian of his high school class. Jered attended Morehead State University and, inspired by the military service of his father, joined MSU’s ROTC program. He graduated from Morehead in 2002 and commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Army’s Medical Service Corps.
Rising to the rank of Colonel, Jered’s 21-year Army career was extraordinary. He served in several critical assignments at home and abroad, including a battalion command and two company-level commands.
ered deployed to Egypt, Israel, Afghanistan three times, Iraq, and Kuwait. And he was selected to attend — and graduated from — the prestigious Army Command and General Staff College, as well as the Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy. Jered’s military service enhanced the Nation’s defense, improved Soldiers’ lives, and made an indelible impact on the Country. As a result, Jered was recently inducted into the Honorable order of Kentucky Colonels, the very highest honor that the Governor of Kentucky can bestow.
While stationed in the Republic of Korea, Jered met his “Seoul” mate, Katherine. They quickly fell in love and married in 2008. Katherine was instantly drawn to the way Jered lived life to the very fullest: he had an insatiable curiosity; a contagious laugh; a great sense of humor; a love of travel, film, and restaurants; and a passion for history and current events.
As their Army careers progressed, Jered and Katherine moved from Korea to North Carolina, to Washington State, to Hawaii, and to Virginia, with numerous deployments and temporary assignments along the way.
Although Jered had a storied Army career, his greatest accomplishments are his two children: Emma and John. Jered is survived by them, Katherine, and mother Diane.
His wonderful life was celebrated during a memorial service in Pittsburgh, PA. Jered will have another celebration of life in Jackson, Kentucky at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.
