Jerry "JB" Barnard

Jerald “Jerry” (JB) Barnard, age 98, passed away on January 11, 2026, at the Frankfort Community Care Home.

Jerry was born on May 7, 1927, in Cortland, Nebraska, to James and Valera Barnard. He attended Cortland High School and later enlisted in the United States Navy, serving from 1944 to 1946. He began his working career with Western Union and later worked for the Union Pacific Railroad, from which he retired. JB was a World War II veteran and a member of the American Legion.

In 1953, he married Betty Lou DeRyke. They shared 58 years of marriage until her passing in 2011. Together, they enjoyed life to the fullest, spending time with friends dancing, taking bowling trips, and playing cards. Both cherished time with their grandchildren, and JB especially loved time spent with his two great-grandchildren, who kept him young at heart.

JB enjoyed hunting, fishing, and golfing. He also liked taking backroad cruises in his truck, often stopping along the way for a beer. No matter where he went, he always seemed to know someone. He loved visiting with people, telling stories and jokes, and occasionally singing a song or two.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Tami; and his wife, Betty Lou.

Survivors include his daughter, Kathy Barnard of Marysville; his son, Rick (Marla) Barnard of Horseshoe Bay, Texas; two grandsons, Kyle (Christine) Barnard of Katy, Texas, and Jason Barnard of the Marysville area; two sisters-in-law, Karla (Wayne) Hill and Jackie DeRyke; and two great-granddaughters, Mila and Zoey Barnard.

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, January 24, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Marysville American Legion. A brief tribute took place at 4:00 p.m., followed by Military Honors provided by the Marysville American Legion.

In lieu of flowers, the family is establishing a memorial fund for the Frankfort Community Care Home and Meadowlark Hospice. Contributions may be sent in care of Kinsley Mortuary, P.O. Box 147, Marysville, KS 66508.