Jeri Southern (real name: Genevieve Lillian Hering; August 5, 1926 - August 4, 1991) was a jazz pianist and singer. Born in Royal, Nebraska, Hering began playing piano at age three, and at age six started formal study in classical piano. She studied classical piano and voice at Sacred Heart in Omaha, Nebraska where she became interested in jazz. After beginning her career at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha she joined a United States Navy recruiting tour during World War II.