Jerel Don Roddy of Morton passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, at the age of 71.
Born on October 22, 1954, in Cochran County, Jerel was a loving son, brother, uncle and an adoring father and grandfather. He lived a life indelibly marked by his over 50-year experience working alongside his family as a custom wheat harvester traveling from Texas to North Dakota.
He was known for his sense of humor, love for fun (not a little mischief) and ability to make friends, many of whom remained lifelong. He found joy in fishing, playing guitar, cooking a Southern breakfast in the tradition of his mother, and telling others about the life and hope he found in Jesus as a young adult. He was a prolific storyteller and loved to reminisce about his youth living in South Texas.
Frequent characters in these stories included his horse Dolly, dog Lobo and childhood friend Stergis.
He had a natural way with animals, especially dogs. For a time, Jerel raised and professionally trained dogs, some of which became part of police K-9 units in West Texas. Many others became beloved members of human families, including his own.
For health reasons, Jerel relocated to Georgia in early 2024 to live with his daughter’s family. He missed his West Texas home, though grew to enjoy mornings on the porch watching the birds and teaching his granddaughter essential skills like using a sling shot, playing dice and learning life lessons from Gunsmoke.
He was preceded in death by his parents, E.C. and Joyce Ward Roddy; brother-in-law, Kenneth Brode Williams; and niece, Kacy Roddy Alvarez. He is survived by his daughter, Shaina Blair (Josh Davis); granddaughter, Ana Rose Blair; siblings, Darlene Williams and Jimmy Roddy (Donna); niece Kenley Williams (Dominic) and great niece Darby Rascon; and nephews Richard Williams (Cristy), Loy Williams (Trina) and Jason Roddy (Amy); and many great nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held in Morton and will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to his granddaughter’s 529 Education Fund via Ugift529.com (Code: 81DZ0S).