Jerry Howard Cokely

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Jerry Howard Cokely, born on Christmas Day, 1934, in Glendale, California, passed away at his home in Wellsville, rejoining his eternal companion Barbara Mae. He was the son of Georgia Mae Gowin and Leo Rex Cokely.

Jerry's early life in Eagle Rock, California, involved assisting his mother with her L.A. Times newspaper route, an experience that instilled discipline. He served his country from 1953 to 1957 as a U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman, training as a Fleet Marine Force Corpsman and seeing sea duty in the Pacific, including Japan, Okinawa, the Philippines, and Iwo Jima. He was a veteran of the Korean and Cold War eras and maintained a lifelong commitment to the Marine Corps motto, "Semper Fi."

Following his service, Jerry embarked on a 40-year career in law enforcement. He spent 21 years with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), where he met his future wife, Barbara Mae Frownfelter, while directing traffic. They were married on October 10, 1959. Jerry and Barbara were converts to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1956, and their marriage was solemnized in the Los Angeles Temple on December 3, 1966.

Seeking a change from the "big city," Jerry moved his family to Utah, where he served seven years as the Chief of Police in Wellsville and 12 years as a Cache County Deputy Sheriff. He cherished the peace and friendly atmosphere of rural law enforcement.

A dedicated and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jerry served in twelve bishoprics and completed an 18-month mission with Barbara at the Nauvoo Restoration Mission (2001-2002). They also served as temple workers in the Logan Utah Temple for several years.

In retirement, Jerry enjoyed building model airplanes, constructing intricate HO gauge railroad items, making quilting frames for humanitarian projects and spending time with his Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren. His patriotism was evident in his care for flag display and his service as Chaplain, photographer, and historian with the Marine Corps League Detachment, participating in many military Honor Guard ceremonies.

Jerry is survived by his 2 daughters, Sandra Mae (Brett) Jorgensen and Susan Mae Keller and his cherished Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren: Casey(Amy) Jorgensen; Corey(Kira) Jorgensen; Tyler Jorgensen; Tenielle Jorgensen; Courtney(Kelsey) Keller; McKenzie(Jeffery)Poulsen and 13 Great Grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked for you to donate to the Toys For Tots Foundation . 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025 at the Wellsville Stake Center. A viewing will take place from 10:30-11:30 AM followed by the funeral service at 12:00. There will also be a viewing the evening prior, on Thursday, November 20, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 PM at the Wellsville Stake Center. Interment will be in the Wellsville Cemetery. 

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com