James “Jim” Davy Gerken, Sr., 91, of Orange, Texas, passed away on November 4, 2025, at home.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Thursday, November13, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange. Officiating will be Reverend Michael Procella. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange
Visitation will begin prior to the service at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Michigan, on July 22, 1934, he was the son of Ralph Gerken and Mildred Gerken. Jim lived a life rich with love, faith, and generosity. Jim was a master electrician, known for his exceptional skills as a craftsman. He took particular pride in his work and was admired for his ability to repair or build anything he set his mind to. A park manager in Florida, he brought his expertise to the outdoors. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, Jim showcased his remarkable resilience and dedication by rebuilding his home alongside his loving wife, Karen. This act was a testament to his character as someone who faced challenges head-on with determination and skill. A man of deep faith, Jim was very involved with Emmanuel Baptist Church in Vinton, Louisiana. He was proud of his military service in the United States Navy and Air Force, often reflecting upon his accomplishments with pride. As a soldier of God, his favorite song, “Onward Christian Soldiers,” resonated deeply with him. Beyond his professional achievements, Jim’s life was defined by his loving spirit. He was a gentleman, always full of love for everyone around him. He was not only a devoted family man but also a charitable individual, consistently giving to various charities and supporting those in need. Jim’s involvement with the Shriners as a clown brought joy to many, showcasing his light-hearted side and commitment to service. He is remembered for his kind heart and unwavering support for his family and friends. Jim’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Mildred Gerken; his children’s mother, Eleanor Fisk Gerken; and wife, Mary Bernice Gerken.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Gerken; daughter, Susan Gerken; son, James D. “Jimmy” Gerken and wife Diana; stepsons, Mike Procella and wife Tommilyn Procella, Glenn Procella and wife Millee, Barry Procella and wife Terri; bonus daughters, Claudette Lalonde, Pam Hinds and husband David, Cindi Khoury and husband Joe; grandchildren, Maylin Gerken, Michael Gerken, Sophie Gerken, Eric Fisher, Marcus Lalonde II, David Hinds, Jr., Brandi Claybar, Michael Procella, April Thompson, Brittany Khoury, Joe Khoury III, Josh Khoury, Erica Arnold, Landon Procella, and Jenna Procella; great grandchildren, Julia Fisher, Lucy Fisher, Ledger Hinds, Knox Hinds, Taya Hinds, Jett Claybar, Jessie Claybar, Sky Thompson, Weslie Thompson, Keaton Khoury, Jayden Khoury, Kade Bouillion, River Khoury, Carson Sauceda, Carlee Arnold, Ella Procella, and Mia Procella; sisters, Marilyn Gerken (Johnson) and husband Eric and Jill Gerken Smith; and his special nephew he loved liked a son, John Smith; many other nieces, nephews, and other loving family and friends.
Serving as pallbearers will be his grandsons, Michael Gerken, Michael Procella, Marcus Lalonde II, David Hinds Jr., Ledger Hinds, and stepson Barry Procella. Honorary pallbearers are Mike Procella, David Hinds, Sr., Joe Khoury, Glenn Procella, and John Smith.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Southeast Texas Shriners at 2610 Sweetgum Ln, Beaumont, TX, United States, Texas.
A special thank you to his faithful and loving neighbor Claude Lewis who was always there for him.
The services for Jim Gerken, Sr., will be livestreamed for the ones who are unable to make it. The livestream can be found under his obituary on www.claybarfuneralhome.com.
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