Willie Jerome Outlay

Willie Jerome “Jerry” Outlay, 84, of Arlington, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 22, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri, Jerry was the son of Patricia Briley and Denise Briley.

Jerry was a man whose presence was hard to miss and even harder to forget. His contagious, boisterous laughter and bright smile could fill a room, and both will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Jerry married the love of his life, Carrol McKnight-Outlay, on February 18, 1967, in Denison, Texas. Their love story began quickly—they became engaged after knowing each other for only two weeks—yet their bond proved to be one that would endure a lifetime. Together, Jerry and Carrol built a beautiful life centered around family, friendship, laughter, and unwavering support for the people they loved. Fittingly, Jerry spent his final days in the comfort of the home he and Carrol shared, surrounded by those he loved most.

Jerry was a proud and devoted father to his daughter, Andrea Carrol Outlay, born August 28, 1968, and his son, Anthony “Tony” Jerome Outlay, born May 11, 1973. His children were among his greatest joys and proudest accomplishments.

When Andrea, his beloved baby girl, passed away in November 2013, Jerry made sure her memory remained a part of the family’s everyday life. He kept her close through stories, shared memories, and the countless photographs he had captured throughout her lifetime. Those who loved Jerry find comfort in imagining the beautiful reunion between Jerry, Carrol, and Andrea.

Jerry was equally proud of Tony, especially his musical talents and entrepreneurial spirit. Father and son shared a passion for business and the excitement of creating something new. As Andrea and Tony grew into adulthood, Jerry and Carrol’s love extended far beyond their immediate family. They became “Mom and Dad” to many of their children’s friends, opening their home and their hearts to those around them. Everyone was welcomed with warmth, kindness, and a sense that there was always room for one more.

Jerry cherished being a father, brother, uncle, and friend, but few titles brought him greater joy than being Austin’s “PawPaw.”

His grandson, Austin Michael Lassetter, born September 25, 2000, was truly Jerry’s pride and joy. There was hardly a moment in Austin’s life that PawPaw did not capture through the lens of his camera. There was no sideline Jerry would not stand on to cheer him on, no accomplishment too small to celebrate, and seemingly no interest of Austin’s that did not soon become one of Jerry’s interests too. He showed up—again and again—and his love for Austin was unmistakable in everything he did.

Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1980, retiring after 20 years of service as a Master Sergeant. He took tremendous pride in his military career and loved sharing stories about his years of service. He often encouraged the young people he met to consider serving their country as well.

Following his military retirement, Jerry took on many roles within the sales community while continuing to pursue his entrepreneurial interests. He was always thinking about the next business idea, the next opportunity, or the next venture. More importantly, whenever possible, he looked for ways to include, encourage, and support his family and friends along the way. His entrepreneurial spirit was not simply about business—it was part of his desire to build, create, and help the people around him succeed.

Jerry and Carrol’s home became the setting for countless cherished memories over the years. Holidays meant family, laughter, good food, karaoke, and plenty of storytelling. They loved hosting game nights and bringing people together, strengthening friendships that often grew into family. In 2002, Jerry and Carrol built their forever home, where they created even more memories and formed lasting relationships with neighbors who became an extension of their family.

Jerry lived a life filled with love, service, family, friendship, laughter, and an endless supply of ideas for what could come next. His voice, his stories, his camera, his unmistakable laugh, and the way he showed up for the people he loved will be deeply missed.

Jerry leaves to cherish his memory his son, Anthony “Tony” Jerome Outlay; his grandson, Austin Michael Lassetter; his sister, Selena Outlay; along with numerous extended family members and lifelong friends whose lives were made richer by knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carrol McKnight-Outlay; his daughter, Andrea Carrol Outlay; his parents, Patricia Briley and Denise Briley; and his siblings, Chester Outlay, James Outlay, and Ollice Briley.

While Jerry’s absence leaves an immeasurable space in the lives of those who loved him, the memories he created—and there are many—will continue to bring laughter, comfort, and love for generations to come.

Visitation will be held at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home, 4216 South Bowen Road, Arlington, TX 76016, US, on September 3, 2026, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, followed by the Funeral Service at the same location on September 3, 2026, at 11:30 am.

A Committal Service will take place at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, 2000 Mountain Creek Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75211, US, on September 3, 2026, at 2:00 pm.