Jerome Perry

Jerome Perry, born on August 15, 1975, in San Antonio, Texas, passed away on January 20, 2026, in Kerrville, Texas. He was the beloved son of Jesse and Lee Etta Jenkins and will be remembered for the profound impact he had on the lives of many.

A proud graduate of Cuero High School, Jerome completed his education in 1993 before embarking on a journey that would define both his personal and professional life. In a testament to his dedication and love, Jerome met and married Jody Zumwalt in Cuero on August 3, 2002. His commitment to nurturing and supporting those around him was evident in his promise to Jody to always show her the right way to love a woman.

Jerome's heart for helping others blossomed early in their marriage, as he began volunteering at the Bluebonnet Youth Ranch in Yoakum, Texas. This commitment to serving at-risk youth led him and Jody to become foster parents from 2002 until 2017, during which time they fostered numerous children and adopted seven. His remarkable ability to care for and uplift those in need was a defining characteristic of his life.

In pursuit of personal growth and to better support his family, Jerome also worked diligently to earn his Bachelor's degree. He graduated cum laude from Columbia Southern University in 2019 with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Sports Management, all while balancing the demanding roles of foster parenting, full-time employment with Yoakum Independent School District as an educator and coach, and his personal life.

After dedicating years to his students at Yoakum ISD, Jerome transitioned to Center Point High School in the Texas Hill Country. There, he continued to inspire young minds as a coach and teacher, fostering a love for learning and sports in his students. Following a change in his health, Jerome took on a new role as the Community Engagement Manager and Recruiter at Hill Country Youth Ranch. In this position, he expertly traveled across Texas, recruiting staff to support the educational and emotional needs of young people at the ranch.

Jerome is survived by his devoted wife, Jody Perry, with whom he shared 23 wonderful years of marriage. He leaves behind a loving family that includes his daughters Aimee Correa (Jonathon), Samantha Perry, Alexandra Leal, Monique Perry, and Amy Austin; and his sons Cameron Holub (Tamera), Nathan (Christi), Mateo, Rico, Justin Garza (Cheyenne), and Tre 'Zell Jenkins-Perry (Kortney). Further enriching his legacy are his 21 grandchildren, who will undoubtedly carry forward the values of compassion and generosity he instilled in them.

In remembering Jerome Perry, we honor not only his life but the warmth, love, and guidance he provided to everyone he met. His commitment to family, community, and the many lives he touched will forever resonate in the hearts of those he loved.