Jerry (Jeri) Merrill New, 53, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2024, in Denison, TX, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 5, 1970, in Liberal Kansas. She is the beloved daughter of CoralAnn Galbraith (Thomas) and Shannon Galbraith.

Throughout her life, Jeri was known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She touched the lives of all who knew her with her gentle spirit and generous heart.

Jeri had a passion for making a difference in the lives of others, especially those with special needs. As a devoted special education teacher for 27 years, she poured her heart and soul into her work, leaving an indelible impact on countless students and their families. Jeri had an extraordinary gift for understanding and connecting with her students, fostering a nurturing environment where each child felt valued and supported.

She cherished every moment spent in the classroom, finding joy in witnessing the "little miracles" that occurred each day as her students reached new milestones and overcame challenges. Jeri's dedication to her profession was not only evident in her unwavering commitment to her students' academic success but also in the kindness and compassion she showed to each individual under her care.

Jeri's legacy as an educator extends far beyond the classroom walls, as she inspired her colleagues and peers with her boundless enthusiasm and genuine love for teaching. Her impact will continue to be felt by generations of students whose lives were touched by her passion, guidance, and unwavering belief in their potential.

Jeri's memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her, and her legacy of kindness, compassion, and dedication to others will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to call her a friend, colleague, or beloved teacher.

Jeri cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, and friend. She leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by her mother CoralAnn Galbraith of Madill, OK, daughter Destiny Mitchell and husband Michael Mitchell, grandchildren Lydia and Elliot Mitchell of Denison, TX, sisters; Sonia Nelson and husband Mike Nelson of Sherman, TX; Salome Roe and husband Kevin Roe of Katy, TX; Melissa Patterson and husband Shane Patterson of Achille, OK; brother Jason Galbraith of Memphis, TN, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins, who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Watts Funeral Home and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

"If ever there is tomorrow when we're not together... there is something you must always remember. you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." -Winnie the Pooh

Jeri will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.