Bobby Jerald Teal

Bobby Jerald Teal was born on June 29, 1936, to Oma Alva and Francis Newsome Teal. They made their home in Phenix City, Alabama where until the age 12, Jerry received education through the public schools.  Choosing to relocate to Arkansas the family settled in Clarendon, where Jerry enjoyed playing quarterback for the Clarendon Lions and graduated with the class of 1954. 

When studies came to an end, Jerry started his journey in the military. He began with the National Guard for only a couple of months before choosing to enlist in the Air Force in 1955. With a combined total of 8 years, Jerry proudly served his country before receiving his honorable discharge in1963. During this time, he was stationed at places that included, California, Texas and Oklahoma as well as an overseas tour in Pakistan and the Philippines.   

For Gwen the name of Jerry Teal brought back many memories from high school football. Their story began while she worked at the telephone company.  Their first date was on July 4, 1963, and in just a little over a month, they chose a lifetime commitment and exchanged vows on August 29th. Jerry and Gwen shared in the birth of three sons, and the joys of seeing their family grow with the addition of spouses and grandchildren. 

Most of his career, Jerry worked in sales and through the years was employed with many different companies. Dedicated to caring for his family, he held positions with Wise Butane, Sears, BF Goodrich and Tri County.  Active in his community, he volunteered with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department and was soon hired on as a Deputy.  In time Jerry accepted a position with the Department of Transportation as a Highway Police Officer where he remained until his retirement. 

Jerry’s greatest blessings in life was being with family and friends. He also enjoyed playing the drums and listening to Patsy Cline, George Strait and George Jones. 

Jerry was raised in the Christian faith and enjoyed studying the Holy Scriptures. On September 28, 2024, Jerry passed away peacefully at his home. He was 88 years old. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Oma Alva and Francis Newsome Teal, one son Russell “Rusty” Teal and a sister Janice (Harvey) Morgan.  

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Gwen Baxter Teal, sons, Larry “Bosco” Teal of Brinkley, Bobby Teal of Forrest City, Tim Teal of Paragould, Jeff (Angela) Teal of Brinkley, daughter Tamera Abbott of Newalla, Oklahoma and 7 grandchildren: Jessica Teal, Lane (Bailey) Teal, Austin Teal, Conner Teal, Haisley Teal, Brandi Russell, Riley Fish and 4 great grandchildren. 

Services will be private.