Jerry Leon Fenley Sr.

Jerry Leon Fenley, Sr. passed away at his home on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at the age of 87. A native of Thomaston, GA, and a longtime resident of Gonzales, LA, Jerry lived a life defined by quiet strength, hard work, and devotion to those he loved.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Juanita Martin Fenley; children, Gordon Fenley (Shalane), Jerry Fenley, Jr. (Wendy), Cynthia Fenley Lavigne (Chuck), and Seth Fenley; grandchildren, Madelynn Fenley (Sam), Kellsey Fenley, Kaitlynn Fenley (Jon), Hayden Fenley (Brook), Celeste Fenley Ducote (Dylan), Kyron Lavigne and Koby Lavigne and six great-grandchildren; sisters, Sara Brown and Phronsie Griffith. He is preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Fenley and Sara Gladden Fenley, son Guy Fenley, granddaughter Amanda Fenley; brother, John R. Fenley; best friend and brother-in-law, Bill Griffith.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Jerry worked 22 years with Freeport McMoran before retiring, later serving as Maintenance Manager at St. Theresa of Avila School.

A man of few words but countless good deeds, Jerry was gifted with his hands and could build or repair nearly anything. Whether working under the hood of a car, crafting with wood, or lending his skills to help a neighbor, he lived to serve others through the talents God gave him. Above all, he was dedicated to his family, providing for them with steadfast love and tireless effort.

Jerry will be remembered for his generous spirit, his acts of service, and the enduring example he set as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and in the countless lives he touched through his work and kindness.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday August 20, 2025, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in St. Amant beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. The burial will take place immediately following at Hope Haven Mausoleum. Following the burial, family and friends are invited to a reception at Holy Rosary Church.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to caregiver Buffy Rouyea and St. Joseph’s Hospice, especially Melissa, Jamie, Chester, Amelie and Barbara.