Jerry Wayne Sturdevant passed away on September 18, 2020 in Truth or Consequences, NM after more than 2 year stay at the New Mexico State Veteran’s Home. He was 70 years old, just about a week shy of his 71st birthday. He will be remembered for his kind heart and generous ways as well as his love of children and animals. Jerry had a strong sense of duty. He graduated high school and completed 2 years of college at Western New Mexico University in Silver City before joining the U.S. Army. He was deeply involved in active combat in Viet Nam where he was wounded and received the Purple Heart medal. Jerry was the recipient of several medals as a result of his exemplary military service including: The Bronze Star, Silver Star, etc..
Jerry struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, (PTSD), a result of brutal combat, was a constant effort in his life and he fought that battle proudly and as courageously as he fought in Viet Nam. In addition, as a result of the PTSD, he endured dementia that stole his memories and broke his loved one’s hearts. The physical and emotional pain that plagued him in his years following discharge from his military service never hindered his ability to love and care for people and animals. He had a heart of gold and a life of love. He thought those things were most important and he never let heartache that others caused keep him from loving life. He passed peacefully. He was also supervisor at the Smelter in Hurley, NM for many years. He initiated procedure that greatly improving the safety rating of the Smelter. Jerry loved his work.
Jerry was born September 23, 1949 to Esther Madeline Hand and Garland Burr Sturdevant in Mena, Arkansas, the youngest of 6 children. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, brothers, Charles, Vernon (Donna) and Tom (Joy) and three nephews and his mother in-law, Elizabeth Kimmick Putnam.
He is survived by his devoted wife Kathleen Hunt-Sturdevant, son, Noah Sturdevant, sister, Ann Graves and her husband, brother, Ronald Gene Sturdevant, (Toni); sister’s in-law, Marilee Hunt (David) Burns and Donna Sturdevant (Vernon), Joy (Tom) Sturdevant, and numerous nieces and nephews; two step grandchildren.
A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Wednesday, September 30 at 9:30am at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with Pastor Joseph Gros officiating. Concluding service and inurnment at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Cremation has taken place at Terrazas Crematory. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.