Jerry Carrell Waldie

Services for Jerry Carrell Waldie, 71, of Ringling, are scheduled for 2:00 P.M., Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Church of Jesus Christ Gospel Tabernacle with LaFon Glenn officiating. Interment will follow at Ringling Memorial cemetery. Services are under the direction and care of Alexander Gray Funeral Home in Ringling.

Jerry was born May 8, 1954, at Cleburne, TX, to the late Mr. William Carrol Waldie and Mrs. Mary Bob (Hughes) Waldie. He departed this life November 28, 2025, in Ringling.

Jerry was raised in Fort Worth, Texas, before moving to Porterville, California, where he attended school. At the young age of 18, he enlisted in the Navy, serving his country with honor and dedication. Following his discharge, Jerry returned to a fulfilling career, joining his brothers in the painting business, where they were contracted by Bonanza Steakhouse Company to paint their establishments. Jerry's talents extended beyond painting; he found his true calling as a mechanic. His passion for mechanics was evident early on, highlighted by the unique opportunity to work on a race car for the legendary Shirley Muldowney, one of the pioneering women in drag racing. Racing remained a lifelong passion for Jerry, who often took to the quarter mile drag racetrack, where he competed fiercely with his beloved Ford vehicles. In 1975, Jerry married the former Ms. Wanda Jackson at Lake Murray Chapel in Ardmore. The couple established their home in Arlington, Texas, before eventually moving to Ringling, where they created lasting memories together. A man of deep faith, Jerry accepted Christ at an early age, being baptized in April of 1963 at the Southern Baptist Church in Straphmore, California. In June of this year, he took a momentous step to rededicate his life to his faith, illustrating his commitment and devotion. Jerry was not only known for his adventurous spirit but also for his kind heart and willingness to lend a hand to those in need. His family and friends admired his generosity and ready assistance, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. Most importantly, Jerry's greatest joy came from his grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply and affectionately referred to as his "best pals." He was proud to be known as the best Papa.

Preceding him in death are his parents, William and Mary; brother, Jimmy Don Ray; great grandson, Alonzo Morquecho.

Survivors include his wife, Wanda Jean (Jackson) Waldie of the home; children, Jerry Persons and wife Deanda of Hasca, TX, Darren Payne and wife Julie of Granbury, TX, Caralyn Crust and husband David of Bixby, OK, Jeri Ann Phillips and husband Justin of Crowley, TX, Bryan Thompson of Ringling, Britany Johnson and husband Waylan of Ringling, Gary Waldie and wife Alicia of Ringling; brothers, Jonny Ray of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, Brian Waldie and wife April of Texas; grandchildren, Preston Waldie and wife Autumn, Payton Carrell Waldie, Pryor Waldie, Priscilla Waldie, Gavin Johnson, Ethan Johnson and wife Rayme, Brayden Johnson, Lelan Johnson, Chyanne Johnson, Joplyn Johnson, London Thompson. Blayden Thompson, Lexi Thompson, Kaylei Scott and wife Kayla, Colby Oliver and wife Rina, Kaleb Oliver and wife Shamara, Chloe Greene, Jordan Graham and husband Clyde, Rese Van Dam and wife Christina, Alissa Finley, Bo Finley and wife Daylin, Madison Edwards, Anthony Paynes, Katlyn Payne, Bailey Payne, Dustin Brown, Trevor Stanton, Travis Persons and wife Tricia, Elisa Crocker and husband Michael, Jared Persons and fiancé Katie, and Emily Persons; great grandchildren, Archie, Keelan, Kylar, Sammy, Rylann, Kenzlei, Conor, Eli, Maverick, Lane, Mia, Elena, Brinlee, Parker, Everlei, McKenzie, Emmett, Carson, Haiclee, and 2 more due to arrive in 2026; numerous nieces, nephews, other family, and many friends.

Pallbearers will be Gavin Johnson, Preston Waldie, Colby Oliver, Reese Van Dam, Blayden Thompson, and Caleb Oliver.

Honorary bearers are all of his grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 5-7 P.M., Thursday evening at the Alexander Gray Funeral Home Chapel in Ringling.

Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.alexandergrayfh.com.