YOAKUM: Jerry Dale DeBord, age 84, passed away Sunday, September 7, 2025. He was born July 12, 1941 at home on the bank of the Lavaca river in Ezell to Henry and Nora Fitch DeBord. Jerry worked in the oilfield for a short period of time before joining a few of his brothers and friends as partners in DeMax construction from where he would retire 58 years later. He believed strongly in friendships and family. He was always willing to help a friend or family member in a time of need. Jerry loved to spend time riding horses, dancing, gardening, gambling, and cooking. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and took great pride in all of their accomplishments.
Survivors: wife of 52 years, Ann Gopffarth DeBord; daughters, Mistie Morris and husband Jim of Dayton Texas, Jennifer DeBord of Big Spring Texas; sons, Darrell Jackson and wife Angelia of Austin Texas, Don Jackson of Garrison Texas, and John Drexler of Pearland Texas; grandchildren, Madison Jackson, Garrett DeBord, John David Caruso Jr., Michael Gavin Fewox, Alissa Caruso, and Dakota Morris.
Preceded in death by his parents; sons Rocky Dwayne DeBord and George Henry DeBord; sisters, Henrietta DeBord, Nora Vee Flint, Osilene “Cupie” Dowlearn, Oleta “Tencie” Hobbs, Margaret DeBord, and Juetta “Cookie” Johnson; brothers, Willie “Bill” DeBord, J.T. DeBord, Henry DeBord Jr., Carl Wayne DeBord, and Clifton “Unc” DeBord.
Visitation 5-7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 12, 2025 with funeral service at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery. Pallbearers: Henry Sims Debord lll, John Drexler, Jim Morris, Garrett DeBord, John Caruso Jr., and Michael Gavin Fewox. Honorary pallbearer: Dakota Morris.