On the evening of October 12th, 2023, Jerry Escalante, Jr., 62, of San Antonio, TX, gained his wings at the Audie Murphy VA hospital with his beloved wife Benita and sister Annette at his bedside. His Heavenly father welcomed him home with open arms and graciously ushered him into Heaven.

Jerry was born on April 22nd, 1961 to his parents Geronimo G. Escalante and Irenia A. Escalante. Following in his father's footsteps, after high school, he valiantly joined the U.S. Navy in 1979 and was a seamen aboard the USS Lexington until his honorable discharge in 1981. Jerry was proud to have served his country and would often happily reflect on his time spent at sea.

Jerry and his wife Benita were married on April 24th, 2010, and they resided in San Antonio their entire thirteen years of marriage. Although Jerry and Benita never had children of their own, Jerry adored Benita's four children and readily accepted them as his own. He also took much pleasure and delight in being a grandfather and great-grandfather. He greatly cherished the bonds that he forged with each of his nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Jerry was a brilliant man; a benevolent soul who would willingly lend a hand to anyone in need. He could fix anything and thoroughly enjoyed any opportunity to do so. He had a vast amount of knowledge, and he prided himself on not only repairing broken things but also imparting his wisdom to others.

Jerry loved animals especially his four dogs: Davey Baby, Krystal Star, Etta James, and JJ. He was a grill master and took pride in sharing his delicious feast with all. While grilling, Jerry often would always sing; a true indication of the joy he found in serving others. He was a true audiophile listening to a wide variety of music, however, his favorites being rock and jazz. Even when he wasn't listening to music, he would create his own songs about almost anything. He loved fishing and being outdoors. He was kind to everyone he met and will be immensely missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.

He is survived by his wife, Benita, and her children: her son Juan Trevino, her daughter Angelina Carrier and her husband Joshua, her daughter Misty Trevino and her husband Sam Gordon, and her daughter Christy Trevino. His grandsons: Adan Zepeda, Anson Carrier, Jace Carrier, and Jack Gordon. His granddaughters: Brigette Trevino, Valerie Trevino, Jasmine Garcia, Aurora Trevino, and Ariel Gordon. His three great-grandchildren: Elias Trevino, Lilana Trevino, and Eleanor Trevino.

He was predeceased by his father, Geronimo G. Escalante, and his mother, Irenia A. Escalante. He is survived by his three siblings: his sister Annette I. Gutierrez and her husband Jesse, his sister Marisa E. Hernandez and her husband Joe, and his brother James (Jimmy) Escalante. He is also survived by many aunts and uncles and numerous nieces and nephews.

FUNERAL SERVICES:

Monday, October 30, 2023

Family and friends are welcomed to attend a celebration of life at:

The Angelus Funeral Home

1119 North St. Mary's St.

San Antonio, Texas 78215

The service will begin at 10:00 a.m.

and following the ceremony he will be laid to rest at

Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with military honors