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~Jerome Perry~
YOAKUM: Jerome Anthony Perry, age 50, of Kerrville, passed away on January 20, 2026 in Kerrville. He was born August 15, 1975 in San Antonio to Jesse and Lee Etta Jenkins. A proud graduate of Cuero High School, Jerome completed his education in 1993 before embarking on a journey that would define both his personal and professional life. In a testament to his dedication and love, Jerome met and married Jody Zumwalt in Cuero on August 3, 2002. His commitment to nurturing and supporting those around him was evident in his promise to Jody to always show her the right way to love a woman. Jerome's heart for helping others blossomed early in their marriage, as he began volunteering at Bluebonnet Youth Ranch in Yoakum. This commitment to serving the at-risk youth led him and Jody to become foster parents from 2002-2017, during which time they fostered numerous children and adopted seven. His remarkable ability to care for and uplift those in need was a defining characteristic of his life. In pursuit of personal growth and to better support his family, Jerome also worked diligently to earn his Bachelor's degree. He graduated cum laude from Columbia Southern University in 2019 with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Sports Management, all while balancing the demanding roles of foster parenting. full-time employment with Yoakum Independent School District as an educator and coach, and his personal life. After dedicating years to his students at Yoakum ISD, Jerome transitioned to Center Point High School in the Texas Hill Country. There, he continued to inspire young minds as a coach and teacher, fostering a love for learning and sports in his students. Following a change in health, Jerome took on a new tole as the Community Engagement Manager and Recruiter at Hill Country Youth Ranch. In this position, he expertly traveled across Texas, recruiting staff to support the educational and emotional needs of young people on the ranch. Jerome is survived by his parents Jesse and Lee Etta Jenkins; devoted wife of 23 years, Jody Perry. He leaves behind a loving family that includes his daughters Aimee Correa (Jonathon), Samantha Perry, Alexandra Leal, Monique Perry and Amy Austin (Wacey); sons, Cameron Holub (Tamera), Nathan Holub (Christi), Mateo Perry, Rico Perry, Justin Garza (Cheyenne), and Tre 'Zell Jenkins-Perry (Kortney) along with 21 grandchildren, who will undoubtedly carry forward the values of compassion and generosity he instilled in them; siblings, De'Vonna Eldridge (John), Jesse Jenkins Jr., Jesse Perry Jr. (Mary), and LeVar Jenkins (Monica); nieces and nephews. In remembering Jerome Perry, we honor not only his life but the warmth, love and guidance he provided to everyone he met. His commitment to family, community, and the many lives he touched will forever resonate in the hearts of those he loved. He will be remembered for the profound impact he had on the lives of many. A Celebration of Life will be from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at Yoakum Community Center. Memorial contributions may be given to the Memorial Fund in honor of Jerome A. Perry at Crossroads Bank. Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656. |