Jerry Crenshaw

Colonel Jerry Ray Crenshaw Sr., 86, passed away peacefully
on December 9, 2025, in Dallas, Texas. Born on September
18, 1939, in Shreveport, Louisiana, Jerry lived a life defined by
service, dedication, and love for his family.
A proud United States Air Force veteran, Jerry dedicated 20
years of his life to serving his country with honor and
distinction, retiring in 1982. His military career was marked by
exceptional achievement and unwavering commitment. While
serving, Jerry earned a master's degree in Meteorology from
Pennsylvania State University, a testament to his intellectual
curiosity and dedication to excellence.
He began his Air Force journey as a meteorologist, providing critical weather intelligence that
supported missions and safeguarded lives. Later, Jerry pursued his passion for aviation, graduating
from pilot training at Williams Air Force Base. As a skilled pilot, he flew C-130 transport aircraft and
DC-9 jets, playing a vital role in global operations and troop movements.
Among his most notable contributions was his involvement in Operation Homecoming, the historic
mission that brought American prisoners of war back from Vietnam. Jerry's leadership and courage
during this pivotal moment in history exemplified his deep sense of duty and compassion for his
fellow servicemen. For his bravery and outstanding service during the Vietnam War, Jerry was
awarded the Bronze Star, one of the nation's highest honors for valor and meritorious achievement.
Jerry's legacy is one of integrity, resilience, and patriotism. His life reflects the values of service
before self and excellence in all endeavors, a true embodiment of the Air Force spirit.
After retiring from the Air Force, Jerry continued to pursue his love of aviation as a commercial pilot.
He flew for MuseAir, TranStar, Continental Airlines, and ultimately Southwest Airlines, where his
professionalism and warm spirit left a lasting impression on countless passengers and colleagues.
Before joining Southwest, Jerry even took on a unique role flying for the Seattle Seahawks,
combining his aviation expertise with his enthusiasm for sports
He retired from Southwest Airlines in 1998. Post retirement, Jerry enjoyed golfing and racquetball at
Brookhaven Country Club, having Friday Breakfast with friends, volunteering countless hours at his
church, and enjoying his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his dog Mocha.
Jerry is survived by his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Julie Crenshaw; his children, Jerry
Crenshaw Jr. (daughter-in-law Lori Crenshaw) and Jill Huddleston (Lee Huddleston); his 7
grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, with one on the way, countless nieces, nephews, and cousins
from the Crenshaw and Riggs families.
His legacy of service, integrity, and love will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Luther Baker Crenshaw and Katherine Pearl
(Riggs) Crenshaw, sister Jenene Broadwater, brother Tommy Crenshaw, and Lukas Huddleston.
A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, December 20th, 2025, at Valwood
Park Baptist Church in Farmers Branch, Texas, with Pastor Jerry Hays officiating.
North Dallas Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Valwood Park Baptist Church, in Farmers Branch, Texas,
in memory of Jerry Crenshaw Sr.