Gerald J. Sexton

Gerald “Jerry” Sexton, 83, of Santa Rosa, NM passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loving family on March 24, 2020. Jerry was born on October 27, 1936, to the home of Milton Sexton and Lena (Peters) Sexton, in Owasso, MI. He was the last surviving sibling, and youngest of sixteen children. He came to New Mexico on his way to California in 1959, and stopped to see his oldest brother, Ray Sexton, who resided in Santa Rosa. During this time, he met the love of his life, Carmen “Angie” Sexton, who he married in 1962, and recently celebrated 58 years of marriage. Jerry was known as a feisty man, with a kind soul, who always had a good story to tell. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. His favorite pastimes included fishing, playing pool, traveling, and listening to classic country, as well as New Mexican Music on KANW. Jerry had a wealth of knowledge. He was a great mechanic, carpenter, and handyman who could fix anything. He owned and operated Jerry’s Garage during the 1960’s. In the early 70’s, he decided to attend New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM where he earned an Associates of Science, a Bachelor of Arts, and a Master of Arts. He began his teaching career at Albuquerque High School, and during that time also worked as a machinist at NC Ribbles. In 1975, he and his family moved to Santa Rosa where he began teaching Industrial Arts at Santa Rosa High School, and later worked as head of maintenance until his retirement in 1998. He also owned and operated River Road Trailer Park from 1975-2014. Jerry is survived by his wife of 58 years, Carmen “Angie” Sexton, daughter Jeanette and husband Aristeo Salcido of Santa Rosa, NM, daughter Brenda and husband Richard Anzures of Seboyeta, NM, grandson Dr. Steven Salcido and Lauren of Detroit, MI, grandson Javier Salcido and wife Sarah of Odessa, TX, grandson Michael Anzures of Seboyeta, NM, and granddaughter Alyssa Anzures of Seboyeta, NM. Jerry is also survived by his sister-in-law, Sharon Sexton of Monte Vista, CA, sister-in-law Aurora and husband Garland Mayberry of Rocky Ford, CO, and numerous nieces and nephews from throughout the United States. A graveside service was held on Friday, March 27, 2020, at St. Joseph Cemetery in Santa Rosa, NM. Serving as pallbearers were Aristeo Salcido, Richard Anzures, Steven Salcido, Javier Salcido, Michael Anzures, and Alyssa Anzures. Honorary pallbearers are his nieces and nephews. All services are under the direction of Chavez Funeral Home, 923 S. Third St., Santa Rosa, NM 88435. 575-472-3369. To place an online tribute please visit www.chavezfuneralhome.com.