Sometimes it is very strange, I mean the people that enter our lives. You would think that a West Texas crappie fisherman would know little about a man who has spent the last twenty odd years in Mineola. Jerald was a friend of mine. I met him and his family through my brother-in-law around the year 2000. He was an immediate friend.

My brother-in-law, Clay Land and Jerald went to school togehter in Lamesa, Tx and were best of friends from Jr. high till the tragic loss. Jerald and Clay both moved to the East Texas area because of their love for fishing and the area. Clay introduced me to Jerald, and like I said, we became immediate friends. Jerald cared for people and would give the shirt from his back to help fellow humans. He was a Christian man and walked as a Christian.

I had only fished with Jerald a few times, but quickly learned that he was a master with top water baits. I have seen him pull 7 + bass from a stumpy point on a Yellow Magic at 2:00 PM on a hot July day. I filled the rear seat of his Champion on a few occasions and got to know him as a friend.

Jerald was a consiencious and safe boater. In all tragic losses there is always some speculation of fault, but each of us knows that one second of distraction from either of the boats involved creates a deadly situation.

Though I had only seen him a few times. He was one of those people who made a great impact on my life. A caring friend, and a fine man. We have all lost from this.

Jerald was my friend. I have suffered great loss. My prayers are focused on his family. My assurance now is the great hope. I know where he is. Heaven has gained a fine soul.

Mike - so sorry for the loss of your friend. My prayers and condolences for the families and friends.

May the Lord comfort you during these difficult times. May the family also find relief in His word.

+1

I worked for Jerald back when he lived in Longview.

Can you tell me what happened? I hate that way this post is sounding. You can PM me if needed.

Thanks!

I take it from reading the post about the wreck on Fork Friday this was Jerald.

I am sitting here shocked. I read about the wreck Friday on here, and even saw some pictures and didn't realize who it was.

He was truely one of the best bosses I could have had. He was very inspirational in all aspects of life. I just wish I would have taken the opportunity to fish with him then.

If you know him, you'll miss his hyper activity! He was full of energy and full of life.

He left a lasting impression on me!

Prayers go out to his family and friends!

Condolences and prayers to you too Trent!

Did'nt know him as a bass fisherman,but as a person who helped my wife and I out at Cades several times over the years.We were in his office 2 weeks ago,while he was putting in a special order for us.He does have 1 huge bass on the wall.We will miss him.

I never knew the man and I send my condolences to the family and friends affected by his passing. I have a picture of a friend in my head that you have created. He was a great man that I wish I had the pleasure to meet. Mike

very sorry for the loss. prayers go out to family and friends

Very well said! God bless his friends and family.

It sounds like jerald was a stand-up kinda guy that we all would have liked to known.I can't even imagine how you that knew him feel inside.Just want to send my prayers your way and say I'm sorry for your losses.

Mike,
Thanks for sharing these words and experiences with Gerald. Our world needs more good people like you and Gerald! May God Bless his soul and provide strength and love to his family.

i'm so sorry for your loss.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the family, rescue workers who were on scene, and all that knew him.