Jerry Bob Hutton

Dr. Jerry Bob Hutton Sr. leaves behind a legacy of laughter, wisdom, and service. His quick wit and sharp intellect were matched only by his unwavering commitment to supporting and enlightening those around him. Jerry died peacefully on February 10, surrounded by loved ones. He was 85.
Born April 28, 1938, in Brownwood, Texas, Jerry was the oldest of two children of Alvie Columbus Hutton and Dora Lucille Hutton.
Jerry graduated from Brownwood High School before attending Howard Payne University to pursue a degree in Psychology. There, he met and married the love of his life, Sandra Jeane Brumlow, on July 17, 1959.
After graduating from Howard Payne University, Jerry and Sandy celebrated the arrival of their first child, Cindy, and Jerry earned a master's degree from North Texas State University. The young family moved to Sandy's hometown of Houston, where Jerry obtained his doctorate from the University of Houston, established a private practice in psychology, and added three boys and another daughter to their family.
The Hutton family moved to Duncanville, Texas, where Jerry and Sandy found community in the First Christian Church of Duncanville, where they became active members, participating in various church activities and lending their voices to the choir. Jerry, despite his demanding work schedule, relished participating in his family's bustling activities, which ranged from sporting events like football and basketball games to cheerleading, swim meets, choral concerts and numerous family vacations. Renowned for his scholarly endeavors, dedication to his wife and children and jovial nature, Jerry was a true embodiment of the family man.
Jerry, a distinguished psychologist, garnered numerous accolades and honors throughout his career. His contributions extended to serving on various boards, mentoring individuals, consulting for school districts, counseling children with behavioral disorders, pioneering testing methodologies, and being a prolific author with numerous publications to his credit.
In 2003, Jerry and Sandy made the move from Rockwall to Commerce, where their home became a sanctuary of warmth and hospitality. Bonfires under the starry sky, fishing excursions in their pond, and vibrant 4th of July fireworks celebrations were cherished highlights of their time together. Despite the occasional mishap, marked by the rare visit from the fire department, these moments were filled with laughter and cherished memories. Jerry and Sandy shared a deep love for their community, finding joy in attending football games and music department concerts at the university. Jerry's life was enriched by singing in the choir at the First United Methodist Church-Commerce. Their unwavering support and enthusiasm endeared them to all who knew them. Cheering on the Dallas Cowboys with his family stood as one of Jerry's cherished pastimes.
At Texas A&M University-Commerce, Jerry held the esteemed position of Dean of the College of Education and Human Services for many years. He dedicated himself to shaping the minds and futures of countless students, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the lives he touched.
As parents, Jerry and Sandy approached the journey of raising their children with wisdom, compassion and love. Jerry's approach to discipline was grounded in the lessons gleaned from his extensive education, yet he tempered it with a gentle touch. One memorable incident on a road trip saw the five children gathered in a circle on a grassy knoll of a highway, encouraged by Jerry to work out their problems amongst themselves before coming back to the car-a testament to his belief in fostering communication and resolution.
While Jerry was known for his fair and structured approach, he was also a softy, particularly when it came to his youngest daughter Jennifer's pleas for ice cream-two weaknesses he could never resist. His generosity knew no bounds, and his childlike spirit brought joy and laughter to all who knew him.
Since their magical meeting at Howard Payne University, Jerry and Sandy were inseparable. Even in the face of adversity, they stood united, facing Jerry's diagnosis of dementia and Sandy's diagnosis of ALS as their final challenge. Together, they embraced each day with courage and resilience, finding strength in their unwavering devotion to one another. Sandy became Jerry's anchor, guiding him through the labyrinth of his mind, while Jerry became Sandy's pillar of support, offering solace and laughter in the face of physical limitations.
While his physical presence may be gone, his spirit will live on in the cherished memories and enduring lessons he leaves behind.
Jerry is survived by his children: Cindy Withrow (husband, Doug) of Midlothian, TX; Jerry Hutton Jr. and Blake Hutton, both of Albuquerque, NM; Jeff Hutton (husband, Michael Lively) of Dallas, TX; and Jennifer Barrow (husband, Darren) of Campbell, TX. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Renell Hutton of Rockwall, TX; brother-in-law, Randy Brumlow (wife, Bette) of Snook, TX; and Paul Brumlow (wife, Patti) of Houston, TX; grandchildren: Lindsey Withrow Poole (husband, Hunter) of Hubbard, TX; Carley Withrow Boone (husband, James) of Mansfield, TX; Spencer Withrow of Dallas, TX; Hailey Barrow Oliver (husband, Jake) of Caddo Mills, TX; and Hannah Barrow of Campbell, TX; great-grandchildren: Sadie Poole, Ronin Poole, Cannon Bartley, Hallie Boone, Hattie Oliver; and many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and colleagues.
Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Sandy Hutton, brother Jim Hutton, and parents Alvie and Lucille Hutton.
The family would like to thank these caregivers: Marie, Destiny, Chef John, Joseph and others at Legacy Oaks Assisted Living and Lakewood House Assisted Living for their compassionate and tireless care for Jerry.
You're invited to a Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday, March 9, come and go from 1:00 to 3:00, at the First United Methodist Church-Commerce Fellowship Hall. 1709 Hwy 24, Commerce, TX 75428. (903) 886-3220. The family plans a private burial following the Celebration of Life.