Jerry Elza Obituary

Jerry Lee Elza, 69, of Forney, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on November 2, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on July 25, 1956, in Hinsdale, Illinois, Jerry entered the world just four minutes before his twin brother, Terry - a fact he liked to proudly remind his brother of throughout their lives. He was the son of Fred and Carol Ann (Diestchweiler) Elza and one of six children in a close-knit family.

Jerry grew up with a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a strong sense of responsibility. He graduated from Downers Grove High School South, where he played hockey, football, and baseball - his love for sports carrying him into his college years at Texas Christian University.

In his early career, Jerry worked as an EMT and served his community through the Friendswood, Texas Fire Department. Later, he pursued a career as a chemical engineer, a field that suited his curious mind. Jerry approached his work with quiet pride and was known among colleagues for his dependability, work ethic, and his ability to remain calm under pressure.

Jerry's life was defined by simple joys and strong values. He loved being outdoors - whether it was casting a line into the Snohomish River in Washington, spending early mornings hunting, or simply sitting by the water with a cold beer in hand. He had a knack for building and fixing things, always willing to lend his tools - and his time - to help others in need. Friends and neighbors knew they could count on him, whether it was for advice, a project, or just good company.

Jerry was a lifelong Southern Baptist whose faith grounded him through both life's joys and challenges. He married his first wife, Karen (Burns) Elza, and together they raised two children, Trevor and Erin. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, and shared memories until Karen's passing in October 2013. In time, Jerry found companionship and love again with Velda "Diane" Fore, whom he married on May 4, 2017, in Rockwall, Texas.

Jerry was the kind of man who found contentment in life's steady rhythms - a good day's work, time with family, a quiet afternoon on the water. He had a deep love for animals, a sharp sense of humor, and a personality that made people feel at home around him.

Jerry is preceded in death by his first wife, Karen Elza; his parents, Fred and Carol Ann Elza; and his sister, Susan Caluya. He is survived by his loving wife, Velda "Diane" Elza of Forney, Texas; his children, Trevor Elza and Erin Herington; his stepson, Michael Callahan; his grandchildren, Jack, Claire, Hailey, Hannah, and Logan; his twin brother, Terry Elza and wife Cheryl; his brother, Paul Elza; and his sisters, Barbara Elza and Diane Elza.

Those who knew Jerry will always remember him as a loyal friend, a steady presence, and a man who lived life true to himself and full of heart.

A public time of visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Reflections Chapel at Rest Haven Funeral Home, located at 2500 State Highway 66 East, Rockwall, Texas 75087, with Pastor Rick Donaho officiating.

A funeral service to honor the life of Jerry will follow at 10:00 AM in Reflections Chapel, with interment immediately afterward at Mustang Prairie Cemetery, located at,

County Rd 283, Kosse, TX 76653, for those wishing to attend the graveside committal.

Guests wishing to send flowers for the service may do so through The Flower Box by Rest Haven at (972) 772-3269. Independent florists may deliver directly to Rest Haven Funeral Home in Rockwall by 9:00 AM on Thursday, November 13, 2025 to ensure all floral arrangements are displayed properly for Jerry's visitation in a timely manner.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Rest Haven Funeral Home – Rockwall, Texas.