Jerry Fanning Sr

Jerry Fanning, Sr. entered the arms of his Lord and Savior on Friday, January 13, 2023 at the age of 86. The loving husband to Lela Bean Fanning for 66 years. He was born in Carlsbad, NM November 3, 1936.

Jerry was a devout Christian and member of Lakewood Baptist Church. He later moved his membership to First Baptist Church, Artesia

His first six years was spent on his grandfather's ranch, east of Lake McMillan, with his father, mother and two younger brothers. After age of six, the family moved to their farm and ranch near Atoka, NM. He attended Central School through 4th grade, Atoka School through the 8th grade and Artesia High School, class of '55. Jerry married Lela Bean, August 9, 1956.

Jerry farmed on the family farm and ranch with his father and brothers from the age of 8 years until he retired at age 62. He was also a member and president of New Mexico Hay Association for six years, served on the board of Southwestern Hay Association and received several awards of recognition. Jerry coached little league baseball for 9 years, and was a charter member of Atoka Fire Department.

After retirement, his love of flying encouraged him to build his own plane which he did and proudly named, Angel. Jerry was able to co fly his plane several times. After a mechanical malfunction and rough landing which disabled the airplane, Jerry never flew his plane again. He later gave the plane to a young man in his church who was interested in becoming a pilot. Jerry was known for his giving heart. Angel was his pride and joy, along with his children, grandchildren and great granddaughters.

Jerry will be greatly missed by his wife, Lela, son Jerry Donald Fanning, Jr. wife Donna, daughter Tawnya Monet Braeutigam, husband David. Grandchildren, Blake Donald Fanning, wife Elyse, Blair Elizabeth Fanning, great grandchildren Blakely, Maselyn and Cadyn. Sister-in-Law Gerene Fanning, wife of Johnny Fanning, deceased, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his parents Donald & Kathryn Fanning, brothers Gary Edward Fanning, Sr., and Johnny L. Fanning.

Pallbearers are; Jerry Fanning, Jr., Blake Fanning, Gary Fanning, Jr., Jeffrey Fanning, Jed Fanning, Joe Dee Fanning.

Honorary pallbearers are Jerry's domino playing buddies.

Visitation to be held at Terpening and Son Mortuary, Artesia, Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm.

There will be a private graveside service for family only at Woodbine Cemetery on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 10:00 am.

A Celebration of Life for all friends and family to follow at First Baptist Church, Artesia at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to American Diabetes Assoc. or charity of your choice.