Longtime Texas Missionary Jerry Dean Marney Dies at 86

Marney dedicated his life to spreading the gospel and helping the less fortunate in Mexico and Central America.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Jerry Dean Marney, an 86-year-old resident of Bangs, Texas, passed away on March 3, 2026. Marney was known for his lifelong dedication to missions, driving to impoverished areas of Mexico and Central America in his converted RV to spread the gospel and distribute clothes. In his later years, he continued his missionary work by witnessing to passengers on cruise ships. Marney was also a skilled carpenter, mechanic, and builder who created custom RVs, a unique 'Trug' vehicle, and even carnival rides.

Why it matters

Marney's passing marks the end of an era for a man who exemplified a life of service, faith, and creativity. His story highlights the power of individual dedication to helping others and spreading the Christian message, even in unconventional ways.

The details

Throughout his life, Marney used his diverse skills to support his missionary work. He repurposed old buses into luxury RVs, built a unique 'Trug' vehicle that combined a Volkswagen Bug and a truck, and even constructed carnival rides that he took on the road. Marney's passion for missions led him to travel to some of the poorest regions of Mexico and Central America, where he would distribute clothes and share the gospel. In his later years, he continued this work by witnessing to passengers on cruise ships.

  • Jerry Marney was born on March 13, 1939 in Clayton, New Mexico.
  • Marney passed away on March 3, 2026 at the age of 86.
  • Marney's funeral services will be held on Monday, March 9th at High Mesa Cowboy Church in Brownwood, Texas.

The players

Jerry Dean Marney

An 86-year-old resident of Bangs, Texas who dedicated his life to missions, spreading the gospel, and helping the less fortunate in Mexico and Central America.

Carol Ann Marney

Marney's beloved wife of 65 years, who passed away before him.

High Mesa Cowboy Church

The church in Brownwood, Texas where Marney was a proud member.

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What they’re saying

“When everything fails look up to Jesus”

— Jerry Marney (koxe.com)

What’s next

Marney's funeral services will be held on Monday, March 9th at High Mesa Cowboy Church in Brownwood, Texas, with interment to follow at Salem Cemetery in Bangs.

The takeaway

Jerry Marney's life exemplified a deep faith, a commitment to helping others, and a spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship. His story serves as an inspiration for how one person can make a meaningful difference through a lifetime of service.