Jerry Mack Boykin

In Loving Memory of Jerry Boykin November 1, 1941 – November 12, 2024 With heavy yet grateful hearts, we announce the passing of Jerry Boykin, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who left us peacefully on November 12, surrounded by the love of his cherished family. At the age of 83, Jerry lived a life full of joy, laughter, and music that touched the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on November 1, Jerry found joy in the simple things: strumming his guitar on a quiet afternoon, watching his grandkids grow up, and being surrounded by the family he held dear. Jerry was a troubadour of the heart, strumming his way into countless memories. Family was the center of Jerry’s world. As a devoted husband to Nell Boykin for 59 years, he was a steady anchor, offering unwavering love and partnership through life’s ups and downs. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, love, and an open-door policy that made everyone feel welcome. As a father, Jerry was both a guide and a playmate, embracing the role with endless energy, humor, and wisdom. He was a dad who never needed big words or dramatic gestures to show his love—it was in the way he was always there, a constant presence you could rely on. Being Pepaw was the role that truly made his heart sing. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he wasn’t just a grandparent—he was their partner-in-crime, their biggest cheerleader, and their greatest source of belly laughs. Pepaw was, in so many ways, just a big kid himself, happiest when surrounded by the laughter of the little ones who adored him. Jerry leaves behind a legacy of love and joy that will echo for generations to come. He is survived by his wife, Nell Boykin; his children, daughter Michelle Helton, daughter Kim (Cliff) Downing, son Kerry (Karen) Boykin, and son Gary Boykin; his grandchildren, Jessica Smith, Justin Boykin, Chassidy Fulton, Chandler Boykin, Teri Helton, Kristina Boykin, Tasha Watford, Tiffany Watford, Michael Watford, and Jeremy Watford; his many great and great-great grandchildren, and siblings. Jerry is preceded in death by his father Kennis Boykin, his mother Mattie Boykin, brother Kennis Gale, brother Jimmy Boykin, sister June Mercer, brother Tommy Boykin. Though our hearts ache in his absence, we are comforted by the countless memories he gave us—a song in every smile, a laugh in every tear, and a warmth in every hug. Visitation will be Sunday, November 17, 2024 at Serenity Funeral Home from 5 - 7PM and a celebration of Jerry’s life will be held November 18, 2024 at 12noon in the chapel. In his honor, attendees are encouraged to bring a memory to share, a favorite tune to hum, or simply their presence—because that is what Jerry cherished most. “A big kid at heart, a loving soul to the end. Until we meet again, keep strumming those heavenly strings.”

Tributes

Jerry Mack Boykin

November 1, 1941 - November 12, 2024