Jack E. Zerkle

He was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on October 29,1945 to Harold and Anna Mae Zerkle. As an only child and only grandson, he was doted on especially by “Grandma” and Aunt Marie.

Jack attended school in Temple, Oklahoma. Later he graduated from Tarleton University before starting his career as an “Ag” teacher. His interest in agriculture stayed with him throughout his life leading to a cattle business and working with the USDA up until early 2025. He had both talent and passion for horticulture. As a young man, he worked for nurseries in Texas and later built a nursery business in Marlin, Texas with his wife, Jo Ann. Jack is a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Stephenville, Texas.

Jack was preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents, his Aunt Marie and his Aunt Gertie Lee. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jo Ann Zerkle. His children: Heidi Hall and husband Lonnie, Thomas “Zack” Zerkle, Stephen Kroll, Rhonda Bays and husband Scott. Grandchildren: Nicholas Zerkle, Colton Kroll, Ashlee Bays, Ashleigh Kroll, Nathaniel Hall, Chole Bays, Ian Howard, Hannah Kroll, Caden Howard, Jaleigh Hall, Brielle Zerkle and twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous life-long friendships including his cousin, Ann Bridges.

Pallbearers honoring Jack’s life are son-in-law’s Scott Bays and Lonnie Hall, grandsons Nicholas Zerkle, Colton Kroll, Ian Howard and Caden Howard.

Graveside service only, officiated by Pastor Jeff Lee, will be held Saturday December 20, 2025, at Hillcrest Cemetery in Marlin, Texas, at 11:00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in his memory to Faith Lutheran Church of Stephenville, Texas and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Jack’s family would like to express special thanks to Lonestar Nursing and Rehabilitation Staff and CCS Hospice.

“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – A.A. Milne (Winnie the Pooh)