Jerry Allen Hammonds

Jerry Allen Hammonds, 76, passed away on May 4, 2017, surrounded by his wife and his children. Jerry put up a valiant fight while facing an opponent that was greater than him, but was not greater than his faith. Services: A Visitation will be held, Saturday, May 13 from 9:00 am – 10:00 am at Wade Funeral Home, 4140 West Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas. A celebration of his life will follow from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Wade's. Burial will take place following the service at Parkdale, 701 S. Mary Street, Arlington, 76017. Memorial: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association of Dallas in Jerry's name. Jerry was born on September 5, 1940, in Beaumont, Texas. He was the second of three boys born to, Joseph and Matilda Hammonds. Jerry spent his childhood in Fort Worth, Texas, rough-housing with his brother, Jody, and carrying his little brother, Jack, around on the handlebars of his bike. Jerry met the love of his life in 1949, but their love story did not officially begin until he asked her out after church in 1961. The “date” never ended and they were married for 56 years. Jerry was a carpenter by trade. In his early years he worked at Lane's Aluminum Industry. Later, he worked for GM, Anadite Industries, AISD and Three-D International where he supervised and managed the construction of schools. He moved up in rank at AISD after receiving his B.S. in Business and Industrial Arts, at East Texas State University. This did not come easy for him, as he drove four nights each week for an hour and 36 minutes to Commerce, Texas, to earn his degree. This accomplishment was something he was very proud of and impressed upon his children the importance of education. Jerry took great pride in his two daughters. He could often be seen bringing water to Jana's soccer practices and even coached Beverly's soccer team. He endured many family vacations with his three favorite women and laughed as his youngest daughter quipped, “If you've seen one mountain, you've seen them all.” In his later years, he spent any and all free time with his granddaughter, Paige Harbin. His eyes would light up at the mere mention of his “Angel Baby's” name. To say he was proud of his family would be an absolute understatement. Jerry's last few years were spent with his constant caretaker, Rachael Marabito, by his side. Rachael became the sister he never had. He was lovingly cared for by many Hospice Community Care of Texas angels, two of which were, Kisa Taylor and Tracy Darby, who lovingly called him, “Pop.” They all became additional members of his family and were instrumental in seeing him off to his next journey of everlasting life. Jerry had a sense of humor that was disarming and he often helped complete strangers in their time of need. He was quick to tell anyone of his love for God and even in hard times he would lean on his faith. He was a man of his word and was never quick to anger. When asked what gave meaning to his life and made him look forward to his future, Jerry answered, “Unquestionably, my family.” Though Jerry's candle has been blown out, the memory of this great man is a light that will never fade. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph John Hammonds, Sr. and Matilda Jane English; and his brother, Jody Hammonds. Survivors: His loving wife of 55 years, Carolyn; his two daughters, Jana L. Hammonds, Beverly Harbin and her husband, E.J. Harbin; one granddaughter, the light of his life, Emily Paige Harbin; his brother, Jack Hammonds and his wife, Irene; three nephews, Paul, Bodee and Charlie Hammonds; one niece, Susan Walters; and a host of family and friends. Wade Family Funeral Home (817) 274-9233