Jerry Thomas Lemons, 85, of Denton, Texas, passed away on November 7, 2025 in Plano Texas surrounded by his family.  Born on June 19, 1940, in Gainesville, Texas, Jerry was the son of Clovis "Jack" Lemons and Frankie (Fitts) Lemons. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he shared 65 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Sandra Sue Smith, whom he married on July 16, 1960. Together they raised three children: Courtney, Krisney, and Craig.

Jerry began his nearly 30-year career with Southwestern Bell Telephone as a technician and cable splicer, rising through the ranks to third-level manager. Among his proudest achievements was leading the rebuild of the telecommunications system in Wichita Falls after the 1979 tornado. After retiring from Southwestern Bell at the end of 1991, he founded the manufacturer's representative firm TelQuip. The company became a valued resource in the industry and Jerry was a founding member of the Texas Communications Expo, Inc. He served on the Board of Directors for many years and in 2017, he received the J.O. Lewis Award for his many contributions to TCEI and the telecom industry.

Known for his calm demeanor, perseverance, and generous spirit, Jerry found joy in hunting, fishing, and time on the lake with family and friends. He was a Master Mason in The Most Wonderful Grand Lodge of Texas for over fifty years.  A friend and mentor to many, his kindness and strength will long be remembered.

He is survived by his wife of Sandra Sue Lemons, his daughter Courtney Tankersley and husband Jim, his grandchildren - Michael Zachery McDaniel, Brittnee Lemons, Danielle Dubbose, Evyan Tankersley,  Avery Foster and husband Justin, his brother Johnny Lemons and wife Cathey, and his sister Sarah Jane Buchner.

He was preceded in death by his mother Frankie Lemons, father Clovis "Jack" Lemons, daughter Krisney Denae Lemons, and son Jerry Craig Lemons.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 5 pm until 7 pm at DeBerry Funeral Directors in Denton, Texas.
A memorial service will be held in the Chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 2:00 PM.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." – Matthew 5:4.