Jerry Allen Kersten

A combined Celebration of Life service will be held for Jerry and his wife Parma at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Grand Prairie, Texas. Jerry and Parma will both be interred at the Dallas – Fort Worth National Ceremony in honor of their service to our country.

Jerry Allen Kersten was born to Monroe and Ella in Waco, Texas. He graduated from high school in 1965. Jerry served two years in the U.S. Army, reaching the rank of SP5 or “Buck Sergeant.” He received a National Defense Service Medal and a Sharpshooter badge.

Jerry attended the University of Texas at Austin for two years and graduated from Austin Community College Radiologic Technologist Program in 1980. He worked as a Radiologic Technologist for over 40 years before retiring from Lost Pines Mobile Imaging in 2022, where he had worked over a decade. Jerry was a loyal employee and was known for being a hard worker, cheerful and efficient.

Jerry was a devoted member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church and a member of the Church Council. He volunteered during worship services, with Meals on Wheels and at the Synod Assembly. He was also a longtime blood donor.

Jerry married the love of his life, Parma, in 1999. They enjoyed participating in the Goldenaires choir, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, performing plays at the senior center, reading and visiting with family. They made wonderful trips together to Mexico, Australia, and Europe. After his retirement, Jerry volunteered at the Outreach Center and participated in Bible studies at his residence and church.

After Parma became ill, he visited her daily at her nursing home and was often found by her side, holding hands and watching their favorite TV shows.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and brother Weldon.

Jerry is survived by his sister Joann, nephews Chris (Naomi), Kevin, and grandniece Noel, cousins Peggy, Jim, Randy, and Charlotte. Also surviving are stepdaughters Emily and Judy.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Grand Prairie, Texas (https://www.ourredeemergp.org/), or to one of the following charitable causes supported by Parma and Jerry:

Lutheran World Relief (https://lwr.org/)

Lutheran Bible Translators (https://lbt.org/)

Women of the ELCA, Katie’s Fund (https://www.womenoftheelca.org/)

Paralyzed Veterans of America (https://pva.org/)

Habitat for Humanity (https://www.habitat.org/)

Feeding America (https://www.feedingamerica.org/)