Jerry Richey was born Aug. 5,1954 in Athens and passed away Sept. 18, 2022. 
In his youth, Jerry served in the U.S. Army, stationed in South Korea. He has periodically lived off the grid but for the last eleven years, he lived in Mabank with his partner in life Helle Lauersen.
Jerry was often described as a free-spirited man, a master of all trades with an abundance of God-given talents. This is evidenced by his many projects over the years including building a church, a lodge and a wedding chapel just to name a few.
Jerry loved animals of all kinds. They trusted and bonded with him immediately sensing his innate goodness. 
He will best be remembered for his unbelievable storytelling ability, most of which were told over a wood-burning stove while smoking the most delicious meats. Most of his stories revolved around treasures he had found at Canton Trade Days, often things overlooked by everyone else. Jerry, however, knew their value and loved to tell you all about each one.
Jerry loved nature, especially the forest. It was his artistic canvas. He lived large and loved hard and his laughter will be missed by all he left behind. He was a passionate friend who would go to the ends of the earth for those he loved, and he loved deeply.
Jerry was preceded in death by his parents Minnie Richey and Grover Cleveland and sisters Vergie Dinsmore and Opal Wied.
He is survived by his spouse, children John, Julie and Taylor and siblings Betty, GC, Pam, Martha, Jimmy, Billy, Bruce and Donna.
A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Oct. 15, 2022, at the Eubank Cedar Creek Funeral Home & Memorial Park. You may add a special memory or note to the family at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/mabank-tx/jerry-richey-10933400. 
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.eubankcedarcreek.com for the Richey family.