With a quick wit and a giving heart, Jerry D. Decker was born on the Naval Submarine Base in New London County, Groton, CT, on Friday, January 17, 1941. He grew up primarily in Three Oaks, MI, where he developed many fruitful relationships and fond memories that he nurtured, treasured, and shared throughout his life.
Jerry was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, in which he served in the 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry, as a Private First Class (E3) in Dusseldorf, Germany. He was honorably discharged on August 9, 1965.
Jerry graduated from Western Michigan College in 1972 with a bachelor's degree in liberal arts followed by a master's degree in Industrial Psychology.
Jerry's professional life encompassed an array of jobs & careers that took him from Michigan to Georgia, Florida, Washington, Nevada, Maryland, Ohio, and then finally Texas. It was in Houston that he eventually became a realtor with Better Homes & Gardens, Gary Green and later with Webster's Auction Palace. Between these two organizations, he earned respect and accolades within the real estate community.
Not being one to sit still any longer than the time it took to read good books, watch good movies, or share good meals and good conversations with family and friends, Jerry volunteered with many organizations: the Sunshine Kids, the Texas Repertory Theatre, and the Texas Department of Public Safety, to name a few. He was also active in portraying Santa Claus during the holiday seasons or helping neighbors in need on a moment's notice. He certainly enjoyed all of these activities, but the pinnacle in his later years seemed to be donating to and participating in the Ernest Hemingway Look-Alike Contest in Key West every summer.
On Friday, December 3, 2021, having arrived in Galveston, TX, and anticipating a traditional, fun-filled weekend at the annual Dickens on the Strand Festival, Jerry unexpectedly passed away from natural causes. His son & daughter-in-law were at his side.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Chet & Dorothy Decker, his brother Ron Decker (Shirley), and his wife & soulmate Clydene "Clyde" Clark.
Jerry is survived by his children Samantha Ridenhour (Tom) and Chet Decker (Lupe), his stepchildren K.C. Clark (Vonelle) and Kim Bellah-Ardoin (Curtis), his 14 grandchildren, and his 3 great-grandchildren.
Our hats are in our hands... Our heads are bowed. 💐
A celebration of Jerry’s life will be
held on Monday, January 17, 2022, which would have been his 81st birthday. Please see the visitation and service information below. Immediately following the service, the family will be having lunch at Las Flores Mexican Restaurant at 14243 Stuebner Airline Road, Houston, TX 77069. Guests are welcome to join them on a self-reserved, self-paid basis.
In lieu of plants or flowers, please donate in Jerry's name to the Texas Repertory Theatre by going to www.TexasRepTheatre.net
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brooksidechampions.com for the Decker family.
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