James Degroff

Jerry was born James Gerald DeGroff on August 18, 1949 in Abilene, Texas. He passed during diagnostic procedures September 16, 2022.

The first of two boys, his proud parents were Richard H. ("Dick") and Bobbie Jewel (Chittum). Both preceded him in death.

After the birth of a second son, David, the young family moved to Sweetwater, Texas. David survives his older brother.

Jerry attended public schools, including Sweetwater High, until the summer of 1966, when the DeGroffs moved back to Abilene.

He attended Abilene High School until the spring of 1968, when he welcomed his first daughter, Susan. She survives her dad.

Another daughter, Melissa, came along five years later. She survives Jerry, as well.

Jerry's professional career seemed to follow that of his beloved father. He worked in route sales, receiving promotions that ultimately reached into management within Frito-Lay.

His travel through life led to Andrews, Texas, where he met and married Sherry Corbin. He suddenly expanded his family to include two sons, Cliff and Heath, and a daughter, Lisa. They all survive him.

Jerry, having become disabled, lost Sherry in 2014 after they had made their way back to Abilene. He lived in the DeGroff family home for decades until death overcame him.

It was Jerry's wish to have his body cremated.