Richard Lee Kerby

Richard attended Socorro High School from 1959 to 1963 and continued his education at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology from 1963 to 1965. From early on, he carried himself with a steady sense of purpose—devotion to what mattered most, and a hard-working determination that shaped the course of his life.

He served in the Army National Guard from 1966 to 1972, attaining the rank of First Lieutenant. He was also a tank specialist, bringing discipline and diligence to his military service. Following his years in uniform, Richard built a long and respected career as an Aerospace Sales Engineer, a role he held for 35 years before retiring in 2009—work marked by persistence, reliability, and pride in doing things well.

On July 25, 1969, Richard married Marcelyn Hutchings in California. He was preceded in death by his son, Jason Alan Kerby; his wife, Marcie; and his parents, Alney Lee Kerby and Zanola L. Poteet.

Richard found deep satisfaction in working with his hands and seeing a project through. He loved working on and restoring cars, including a 1959 thunderbird he restored with his nephew, Jared Hutchings. He also kept himself busy with carpentry projects around his home, always improving, repairing, and building with the same quiet dedication that defined him.

He loved to travel, especially road trips, and he shared meaningful journeys with those he loved—traveling with family to England twice and visiting Ireland with his wife, Marcie. Whether at home or on the open road, Richard approached life with steadfast commitment and an unassuming strength that will be remembered with respect and gratitude.

He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Leigh Puetz; son-in-law, Chad W. Puetz; his brother, Raymond Kerby; and his grandchildren, Trajan Jason Zachary Puetz, Ethan Shane Puetz, and Christian Xander Puetz.