Jerry Deffenbaugh

Encouraged by his church to enter the ministry, Jerry followed in the footsteps of other Skidmorites to Nebraska Christian College in Norfolk, Nebraska where he met Nola Nicholas. They were married on May 28, 1958 and quickly became a team for life.  Jerry graduated midterm in 1960, packed up everything they owned, and headed to Indianapolis for seminary, arriving two weeks before Rodney’s birth.  There, he earned his Masters of Divinity in 1962—just in time to barely make it home for the birth of third child, Tamera.  Rodney (Kendra) was born in 1960 followed by Reginald, Tamera, Teri (Kelly), and Ritchie (Amy). They lost Reggie at 6 months when he contacted a virus.

Jerry served four churches full time while raising the kids, then embraced the role of interim pastor, serving thirteen more churches over twelve months each.  He loved the challenge and the people he met along the way.  But ministry wasn’t his only passion—Jerry was a man of many talents.  He fixed plumbing, installed sprinklers, renovated farmhouses, and even dabbled in rental properties with a heart for helping low-income families, offering an option to buy.  And let’s not forget his entrepreneurial spirit:  Angora rabbits, pheasants, and a barbecue ribs food truck (though he didn’t cook) were all tried; though none quite panned out as planned.

In 1992, Jerry and Nola bought a retirement home along Turkey Creek in Bartlesville, Oklahoma—a place where their nine grandchildren, Drew (who died prematurely), Victoria (Brandon), Paige, Addison (Sawyer), Grant (Ashleigh), Peyton, Keaton, Caroline, and Kingston would create lifelong memories.  Christmas gatherings and creek adventures were the norm.  Later years saw them as snowbirds in Harlingen, Texas where Jerry served as park chaplain for ten years.  They also enjoyed cruises together to the Balkans and Caribbean and road trips across the U.S., soaking in the beauty of the country. He also loved studying new subject matters and discussing them weekly with the “guys” from church.

Jerry battled lung disease, but outlived the predicted life span by several years, witnessing three grandchildren marry and welcoming his first great grandchild, Cooper. He lived life to the fullest but was ready when his time came.  Jerry Deffenbaugh wasn’t just a pastor or a handyman—he was a storyteller, a problem-solver, and a man who left a legacy of love, faith, and a few unfinished business ventures.

I’m so sorry for your huge loss. What an amazing Dad, husband, grandpa, brother, GREAT GRANDPA, and Pastor. WOW. - Jennifer Su

Never developed a deep friendship with Jerry but distinctly remember him as a customer at Premier Motors in Bartlesville. Know the family well! Teri and her family, Tami( always Tamera to me) and Richie became good acquaintances thanks to my enduring friendship of 40 plus years with Rodney and our annual motorcycle trips. . It’s obvious that Jerry and Nola instilled Christian values in their children. A great life lived with a wonderful legacy through his children. - Craig Hacker

Sending love to you and your family, dear Teri.- Dana Madsen

My brief visits with Jerry found his handshake firm and eyes that met my soul. - Helen McHale

May he rest in peace. I am so sorry for your loss. - Laurel Adams

Jerry was a good friend from the time we arrived at Posada del sol in Harlingen Texas. His way of delivering a sermon was very thought provoking with extra measure of kindness. Jerry's friendship helped create a community feeling and a sence of the greater good. He made a difference in my life, and he will always be in my heart. I thank God for knowing Jerry and Nola. I pray that his family is consoled by God's love. - Dennis Rude

Jerry was a second father to me. He changed the trajectory of my life by his selflessness and love. He gave me the confidence to attend college when I felt hopeless. For the last 33 years I’ve thought of Nola and Jerry and kept them in my prayers and thanked god for putting these amazing loving folks in my life. It was a tough but happy day at church yesterday. Emotions running high but realize I have to improve my relationship with god. My daily decisions are led by “what would Jerry do.” My successes professionally and personally is because of his leadership and purpose. There are no words to express my gratitude. Thankyou and hope to see you again Jerry. - Scott Ortolani

My deepest sympathy to you, Nola, and your family upon the loss of your loved one, Jerry. May God give you and your family peace. - Clarice Olsen

So sorry for your loss. Jerry will be deeply missed. Thinking of you during this difficult time. - Matt Phillips

I rarely called him "Jerry." He was always "Butch". From the time I met him when we were both 9th graders at Skidmore High (part of a class of only 11) we were friends who enjoyed sparring with one another over just about anything. We graduated together, we were at Nebraska Christian together, and I was one of Nola's attendants at their wedding. In more recent years, we enjoyed times together when we found ourselves living across the Oklahoma-Arkansas state line. The memories are many and precious. Butch lived well and finished strong. Nola, our prayers are with you. - Bettie Skelton