Jerry Gene Barkley

Jerry was born in Prague, Oklahoma on April 4, 1939 to his special parents, Orville and Ruby Barkley, and went home to his heavenly father on December 24, 2023. He was married to his loving wife and soul mate Laurie for 48 years. He has two incredible sons, Jefferey Barkley (Laverne) and Gregory Barkley of Visalia. He also has two wonderful grandchildren, Adam and Hannah Zuyev (Anton) of Seattle, WA, and one great grandchild Azzalina (Azzie). Jerry leaves his brother Bill Barkley (Jean) of Van Buren, AR and his sister, Betty Bell of Visalia. He leaves his brother-in-law John Lujan of Salem, OR. Words cannot express his deep love for his wife Laurie, and his two sons Jeff and Greg, his many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He had an unwavering commitment to his relationship with God, and was a dedicated husband and father. He and Laurie were blessed to have the opportunity to travel all over the world visiting 15 different countries. Their favorite travels were to Israel, the Orient, and Spain. In 1946, Jerry's family left Oklahoma, settled in Farmersville, and later moved to Visalia, CA. He loved God with all of his heart, and attended Visalia First Assembly for over 43 years. His love and care for others, especially young people, and those in need, were his passion and dedication in life. Helping others is where he spent much of his time, energy, and resources. Jerry graduated from Redwood High School in 1958, and was an outstanding three sport athlete with varsity letters in Football, basketball, and baseball. His name is listed on the "All American Blanket" for basketball in 1958 displayed in the Redwood High School gymnasium. He played in the very first Cowhide football game. He was also a member of the Visalia Babe Ruth League World Series Team that played in the first Babe Ruth League World Series in Washington, DC in 1954. He received his Associate of Science Degree at College of Sequoias, Bachelors of Science Degree and Teaching Credential at California State University, Fresno, and Masters of Science Degree from Cal Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. He taught Biology and Agriculture at Tulare Union High School for 5 years; employed at the State Department of Education Agriculture Division on the University of California Davis Campus for 2 years; at Reedley College he taught Agriculture for two years, and then was promoted to the position of Instructional Dean at Reedley College for 23 years. He loved his career in education and had a compassionate heart for his many students who were very special to him. Jerry never missed an opportunity to bless former students, or meet a need for a struggling family. He encouraged everyone to "never give up on your dreams." He leaves many friends he loved so much, and in turn he was loved by so many as well. He will be missed by all. In lieu of flowers, Jerry's family requests donations be made in his memory to Good News Global Prison Ministry, in memory of Jerry Barkley, 36168 Road 112, Visalia, CA 93291, In C/O Chaplain David May. Memorial services will be held 1:00 PM Saturday, February 24th, 2024 at Visalia First Assembly of God, 3737 S Akers St, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Jerry Gene Barkley

April 4, 1939 - December 24, 2023