Jerry DeBord

Jerry D. DeBord, 80, of LaFayette, Georgia, passed away on August 23, 2025. Born on April 20, 1945, in LaFayette, Jerry lived a life marked by service, devotion to family, and a passion for the things he loved most.
A 1965 graduate of LaFayette High School, Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967. Following his service, he began what became a distinguished 32-year career with the Georgia State Patrol. Graduating from Trooper School in 1968, he went on to serve with honor and integrity, becoming Post Commander in 1982 and later retiring as Sergeant from the LaFayette Post. Jerry was also a graduate of Brenau College, earning his degree in Criminal Justice, and furthered his law enforcement education by completing the FBI's National Academy of Law Enforcement in Quantico, Virginia.
On June 19, 1993, Jerry married the love of his life, Nancy Langley DeBord. Together they built a home full of love, family, and laughter. Jerry was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and he treasured every moment spent with his family.
Jerry had a deep love for classic cars, often spending time restoring and remodeling them. A true history buff and avid reader, he enjoyed learning as much as possible about the world around him. He was also a loyal supporter of the University of Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Braves. Above all, Jerry lived his faith daily as a member and deacon of First Baptist Church of LaFayette.
He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Nancy Langley DeBord; his sons, Chris DeBord and Brian DeBord; stepdaughters, Heather (Mike) Culberson and Leslie (Sayan) Smith; grandchildren, Matt Culberson, Jessica (Braulio) Suarez, Daley Culberson, Reed DeBord, Addison DeBord, Ella Smith, Kinley Smith, and Ty Smith; great-grandchildren, Emma Suarez and Ethan Suarez; siblings, Debbie (Chuck) Harris and David (Bobbie) DeBord; godson, Pat Gass; his beloved fur baby, Petunia; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and J.D. DeBord, and his brother, Kenny DeBord.
A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to the hour of service at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the LaFayette First Baptist Church. Dr. Derrick Fielder will officiate.
Burial will follow at the City of LaFayette Cemetery with GSP honors.
Pallbearers will be Matt Harris, Justin Harris, Jonathan Harris, Reed DeBord, Rob Gass, Drew Kemp, and Pat Gass.
Honorary pallbearers are Mike Culberson, Sayan Smith, Eddie Sizemore, Andy Kemp, Jim Patton, Alex Quintana, and Dale Pack.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Family Life Center at First Baptist Church of LaFayette.
Jerry's legacy will live on in the love he shared, the example he set, and the memories his family and friends will always hold close.
Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.