Jerry James Honza, Sr., 88, a long-time resident of Ennis, Texas, closed the final chapter of his life on Earth on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 8.10 a.m. at Medical City Hospital in Arlington  He was surrounded by special friends and loving family.

Jerry was the baby of nine children born on September 18, 1937 to Anastacia and Joe F. Honza, Sr. in Bardwell, Texas.  Jerry graduated from St. John's High School in 1956 and immediately pursued his dream of playing professional baseball. He began his Minor League career with the Muskogee Giants before joining the Dallas Eagles, where he had the opportunity to play alongside future Hall of Famer Willie McCovey—a story he loved to tell throughout his life. In 1958, he returned home to marry the love of his life, Carol Grey Wakeham, beginning a marriage that would span decades.  Following Carol's passing in 2020, Jerry was fortunate to find love and companionship again with his dear friend, Patsy Jones Hord. They shared a special bond that brought great joy, laughter, and comfort to both of their lives.

Jerry dedicated many years to the community he loved.  He began his career with Ennis Business Forms before continuing his career with the Ennis Independent School District, where he served as Head of Maintenance. And his love for the Ennis community extended well beyond his work. He volunteered over the years with the Ennis Lionbackers, Band Boosters and many other organizations for his kids, as a coach with Ennis Little League Baseball and even helped build the very first concession stand at the original Sam Houston baseball fields, leaving a legacy that served generations of young players and their families.

Jerry's rich and fulfilling life was always centered on the things he treasured most—his faith, his family, his friends, his love for the outdoors, and good food. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, he never passed up an opportunity to cast a line, hunt at "the Pad," or spend time outdoors with his faithful black Lab, Jake, his trusted hunting companion and loyal friend.

Jerry also had a gift behind the grill. His barbecue was legendary among family and friends, and his homemade barbecue sauce became one of his signature trademarks. Whether gathered around the table sharing one of his famous barbecue meals, swapping stories, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Jerry had a remarkable way of bringing people together and making everyone feel at home.

Jerry is survived by four children: Theresa Johnson and husband, Jimmy; Jerry Honza, Jr. and wife, Sharon; Jacqui Rejcek and husband, James; and William (Bill) Honza and wife, Cindy. He has nine grandchildren: Trey Honza and wife, Raven; Rachel Schick and husband, Benja; Ethan Honza; Emily Rejcek and partner, Andrea; Adam Rejcek and wife, Jenna; Melany Collins and husband, Jesse; Dylan Johnson; Colby Wolverton; and Joseph Honza. He also leaves behind eight great-grandchildren: Milo and Lyra Honza; Maggie Collins; Benjamin and Ellis Rejcek; Sadie and Laynie Johnson; and Sam Schick. Also surviving Jerry are his cherished companion, Patsy; his brother, Lawrence Honza and wife, Ruth, of Ennis, Texas; his brother-in-law, William H. Wakeham, Jr., of Frankston, Texas; as well as several beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Carol, his parents, Joe F. Honza, Sr. and wife, Anastacia Honza, brothers:  Leo Honza, Joe F. Honza, Jr. and wife, Louise, and Adolph Honza, and wife, Lucy; and sisters:  Rosa Ann Honza, Mary Patak, and husband, Joe 'P', Adell Honza, Sister Mary Ann Honza, and Sister-in-Law Barbara Wakeham

Visitation, Memorial service and Rosary will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the J.E. Keever Mortuary Chapel of Ennis