Jerry Ray Lunsford

in his bloodstream and recurrence of cancer.

Jerry was born in Lakeland, Florida, to Rufus “Bud” Lunsford and Christine Lunsford on December 12, 1942. The family moved to Avenal, California, in 1948 where many life-long friends were made. He graduated from Avenal High in ’60 and then attended Coalinga JC. In 1962, he moved to Bakersfield to attend Bakersfield JC and Fresno State extension, earning a B.A. in history. He later earned an M.A. from Azusa Pacific.

He had several professions during his life, but teaching and coaching were his real passions. He taught history and government, as well as cinema classes, in the Kern High School District for 34 years: BHS, North High, Highland, Vista, and back to North. He coached boys swimming and football at North and girls swimming at Highland, and gave his all to his student athletes. For several years he was also a real estate agent and served as contractor building some apartments and a second home in Cambria.

Jerry loved the Lord, his family, and his church--Valley Baptist. He was a loyal friend and neighbor.

He liked to travel, and his favorite trip was to Israel with Bonnie in 2012. His other passions included ’57 Chevys, movies, his dogs, and old time Rock & Roll, especially Buddy Holly and the Righteous Brothers, and date night at the Melodrama. Throughout his life, he was looking for excitement including being a scuba diver, a pilot, riding motorcycles, and playing golf.

He is survived by his wife Bonnie, his sons Jason Alex, Zachary and daughter Ashley, step-son David Michel, brother Larry (Sylvia) Lunsford, many nieces and nephews, and numerous cousins. Also, his dogs Cagney and Bogey.

Special Thanks to Pastor Richard and Peggy Long, Glenn and Cathy Schmidt, Joe and Fran Kandle,

Ray and Mary Graham, and Mark and Donna Cabe, along with Around the Clock Companion Care

and Hoffmann Hospice.

Services are scheduled for October 19, 11:00 a.m., at Valley Baptist Church, 4800 Fruitvale Avenue, Bakersfield, with Reception. Graveside—2:00 p.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Road.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Lunsford family.