1941-2025
Jerry Leon Rich, 84, of Arkansas City, KS passed away Monday, December 22, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his family.
Graveside services will be held at 1:00 PM Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the Parker Cemetery. A time of visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, Monday, December 29, 2025 at the Shelley Family Funeral Home of Arkansas City. Memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice, donations may be left in the care of the funeral home.
Jerry was born on February 6, 1941, in Jefferson City, MO. The family moved to Arkansas City shortly afterwards and he was raised by his mother, Evelyn Simpson and stepfather, Gerald Simpson. He attended Ark City and Gueda Springs High Schools, graduating in 1959. On January 8, 1962, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Norma Brown of which they have celebrated 63 years of marriage and commitment. The couple made their home in Ark City and Jerry worked at Rodeo Meats for 21 years before their closing. He then started his own farrier business, shoeing horses until retiring at the age of 75. Jerry enjoyed going to rodeos and team roping, coon hunting, gardening, but his greatest joy was going to any of his kids' and grandkids' sporting events. He was a very proud Papa.
He is survived by his wife, (who he affectionately called Norm), children Deanna Houser (Rick), Clayton Rich, Sally Palmer (David), grandchildren: Allyson Houser, Luke Houser (Kristina), Drew Palmer (Kalena), great-grandchildren: Turner Houser, Kash Houser, Murray Pate Palmer, and sister Judy Walker Harmon.
He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Garry Rich.
