Jerry Wayne Searcy, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and faithful servant of Christ, entered into the presence of his Savior on July 5, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born on October 27, 1938, in Bakersfield, California, to Florence and George Searcy. As the oldest of five children, with two step-sisters, Jerry learned early the importance of hard work, patience, and a good sense of humor.
At the age of 20, while driving the bus for the local high school, Jerry met the love of his life, Ruth Ann. It was a fateful encounter that changed his life forever. They were married on February 21st and shared 61 beautiful years together filled with laughter, faith, and a whole lot of love.
Jerry and Ruth were blessed with two daughters, Lorraine (Roger) and Becky, who were the joy of his heart. He also adored his grandchildren, Emmanuel (Suzy), Caleb (Michelle), Kassidy (Peter), and Moana (Tavi), as well as his great-granddaughters, Brianna and Payten. To them, he was Grandpa, the man with a twinkle in his eye, a teasing grin, and a heart that never ran out of love.
Jerry spent ten years serving as a pastor in the Church of the Nazarene, where he guided and encouraged others in their walk with Christ. His passion for missions took him across the world and across the street. He led countless local and international mission trips and was always ready to lend a helping hand or share the hope of Jesus with anyone who would listen.
Over the years, Jerry worked many jobs, but his longest and perhaps favorite was serving as a school custodian in Oakdale, California. It suited him perfectly because he loved people and never met a stranger. Students, teachers, and parents alike knew him for his easy laugh, his willingness to help, and his ability to make even the most ordinary day a little brighter.
Jerry was rarely serious and had a playful streak that kept everyone on their toes. He loved to invite people over without telling Grandma, often leaving Ruth Ann surprised but never truly upset, since hospitality was just part of who they were. He loved working on cars, traveling, and spending time with his family. In 2001, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of taking his entire family on a mission trip to Australia, creating memories that his family will cherish forever.
Jerry’s humor was as steady as his faith. Whether he was cracking a joke during a serious moment or offering a wink to break the tension, he had a way of reminding everyone that joy is a gift from God. When it was time to say goodbye, he would always smile and say, “Don’t forget who loves you.” Those words, simple and true, capture the heart of who he was.
Though his family will deeply miss his laughter, his hugs, and his teasing jokes, they take comfort in knowing he is now in the presence of his Savior, hearing the words he longed for most, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” His life was a living testimony of love, service, and joy, and his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.
A Memorial Service will be held at the Connecting Point Church of the Nazarene in Denair, CA on Saturday, November 1, 2025 from 1-3PM.
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