Jerry Wayne Tallas, 83, of Bay City, Texas, peacefully went home on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, reunited at last with his beloved wife, Dianna — the greatest gift he could give her.  Jerry was born July 26, 1942, to the late Frieda and Louis Tallas.

He carried a deep love for family, laughter, and the simple pleasures of life.  Jerry was a storyteller at heart. He could light up a room with a quick joke, a mischievous grin, and a tale that somehow grew more delightful each time he told it. He sang with the gusto of a man who loved music more than precision — a proud member of the Coastalaires who never let an off‑note get in the way of enjoying the moment.

Friends and neighbors knew him for that laugh, his ready smile, and the way he found connection with nearly everyone he met.  An amazing dad, Jerry treasured his time with his daughter Tona. Their fishing trips were sacred — quiet mornings on the water, the two of them sharing stories and laughter. He doted on his grandson Alec, who he lovingly called "Pawpaw," and welcomed bonus granddaughter Alex Mills into his life with open arms. Family gatherings were brighter with Jerry there — full of playful teasing, heartfelt advice, and moments that turned into lasting memories.

Jerry served his country in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1963. Afterward he worked in the oil fields and at STP Nuclear before answering a lifelong call to serve his community as a firefighter. He retired from the Bay City Fire Department after 35 years, a career marked by quiet courage, steady dedication, and the respect of those he served alongside.  He loved to travel and seize adventure whenever it presented itself, but he also cherished everyday rituals: the shared routine of talking about Days of Our Lives with Tona on her drive home, singing along to familiar songs, and telling stories that stitched the family together. Those small, loving acts are the threads of his legacy.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dianna; and his parents, Frieda and Louis Tallas. Jerry is survived by his daughter, Tona Neuman and her husband John of Pottsville, Arkansas; his grandson, Alec Neuman; brothers, Jimmy and Billy Tallas; sister, Linda Alexander; sister‑in‑law, Donna Dennis; and bonus granddaughter, Alex Mills.

The family will receive relatives and friends for visitation at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Bay City. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Matthew Gore officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.  Pallbearers will be Bob King, Kyle Mills, Mike Henderson, Matthew Keprta, John Neuman, and Alec Neuman.  Honorary pallbearers will be Rev. Matthew Gore, the Coastalaires, and the Bay City Fire Department.

The family welcomes memories, stories, and condolences at www.taylorbros.net.  They ask that, in honoring Jerry, you share a laugh, sing a little off‑key, and hold close those you love.