On Sunday, October 16, 2022, Jerry Lynn Gray-Eskue passed away at age 66. Jerry was born on February 23, 1956 in Artesia, NM to John Henry Eskue and Nada Laverne Simmons.

Jerry was a Renaissance man of many occupations and interests. His accomplishments would take a book to list and days to read. In his youth, he refitted oil rig bits by hand and raced his Firebird. He learned swordplay and became a student of the Medieval time period and later, Ancient Egypt. Over time, Jerry built his own house and taught himself electronics and programming. He worked for over 20 years as an electronics engineer for various organizations.  During that time, he was an entrepreneur and inventor with a wide range of fully realized inventions including flash-meters, synthesizers, and guitar foot pedals. He was an avid musician and theatrical portrayer who helped pioneer the field of male belly-dance under the stage name Ankh. When he was not customizing a motorcycle or building a new invention, he could be found in the great outdoors, enjoying a renaissance faire, camping, or treasure hunting with his sons.

Jerry had his fun but made sure to take care of those around him. He was a great role model and inspiration. He was known to help others and support them while being mindful of their personal choices.  Anyone that knew him for long became enriched by his presence. He served as a constant reminder to those he knew that a person can change their circumstances. His example proved that we all have a choice whether to look for the light, or to become that light.

Jerry was truthful, courageous, hospitable, industrious, honorable, wise, strong, protective & loving. He was a theorist, philosopher, inventor, computer expert, electrician, metal worker, carpenter, survivalist, sailor, roughneck, jeweler, belly dancer, biker, family man, Viking.

Jerry is survived by his mother Nada, siblings Johnnie, Gene, Charlotte, and Sandra, sons Ian, Seann, Zane, and Shane, as well as his many cousins, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Zane:

In my Childhood, Dad stood larger than life itself.

In my Adolescence, He stood between me and the abyss.

In my Adulthood, He has been the guiding force behind every sensible decision.

Today, He stands as my Hero.

You are Loved Dad, and you will be so very sorely Missed.