Jerry Kunkel

Jerry Ray Kunkel, 82, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 in Amarillo, Texas.

Memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m., Friday, May 16, 2025, in the chapel at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial, 4111 S. Georgia St.  Military rites are provided by Volleys for Veterans.  Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, 2800 Paramount Blvd.

Jerry Ray Kunkel was born May 31, 1942, to Oba Lee and Elizabeth (Elms) Kunkel. He grew up in McLean, Texas. Jerry graduated from McLean High School in 1960. He was involved in football and FFA. Jerry served in the US Air Force from 1962 to 1966, and was stationed in Newfoundland and Grand Forks, North Dakota.

On September 13, 1964, he married Roxie Gerldeene Hoover and they made their home in Lubbock, Texas. They were married for 45 years before her passing in 2010. On December 21, 1973, Jerry and Gerldeene welcomed their son Michael Hoover Kunkel. Jerry worked for 43 years in the retail and service industries in Lubbock, until his retirement in 2009. That same year he and Gerldeene moved to Amarillo so more family members could help with her health conditions. He has attended Coulter Road Baptist Church since moving to Amarillo.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Oba and Elizabeth; his wife, Gerldeene; and a brother-in-law, Charles David Upton.

He is survived by his son Michael Kunkel of Lubbock, Texas. His brother, Eddie Hugh Kunkel (Pat) and nephew, Kevin Kunkel of Amarillo. His sister, Vickie Sue Upton. Two nieces, Angie Bivens (Doug) and Cari Wright (Robert Darian) of Amarillo. 4 great-nieces, Aaryn Frazier (Austin), Elizabeth Johnston (Bryce), Morgan Wright, and Carlie Wright and 1 great-nephew, Cory Bivens (Allison). He has many cousins and extended family.