Gerald Dale Behning

Gerald Dale Behning, of Palestine, Texas, passed away peacefully on the 26th day of July 2025, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 91. Mr. Behning was born on the 1st day of January 1934, to his loving parents Elmer Behning and Gladys Kennedy Behning in Alpena, Michigan. 

“Gramps” as he was lovingly known, was a devoted American who loved and served his country, and in his later years found great comfort and peace for his salvation through worship and prayer. He was a devoted husband to his wife Opal Ridley Behning, a loving father to his children, Karen Sue Crowley and husband Anthony of Madill, Oklahoma, Kathey Boeckmann of Wynne, Arkansas, Mona Smith and husband Donnie of Harrison, Arkansas, Michael Dale Behning and wife Angela of Denton, Texas, Mark Gerald Behning of Denton, Texas, and Tony Tutor of Wynne, Arkansas.  He was also a caring brother to his sister Sandi Dexter and husband Bob of Seattle, Washington, and his brother Richard Allen Behning and wife Donna of McKinney, Texas.  Mr. Behning was also loved by his 14 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren, and he was a loyal friend to many.

Mr. Behning was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Gladys Behning, granddaughter Jenny DuCharme, daughter-in-law Lynn Tutor, son-in-law Randy Boeckmann, and his brother Thomas Lee Behning.

After serving in the U.S. Navy during the Korean war, Mr. Behning went on to complete two years of college and finally found his calling in the world of sales.  His professional life was further enriched by his active involvement in various associations. He was a life member of the Veterans Association, a proud member of the Independent Garage Association, and a community member of the N.F.L. Alumni Association.

Mr. Behning's personality was larger than life. He was an extrovert who loved people and never met a stranger. His ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on everyone he met. An avid golfer, card player, and sudoku enthusiast, Mr. Behning's intelligence and love for strategy were evident in his hobbies. His adventurous nature was fulfilled through his love of traveling and spending time at the beach, where he felt most at peace.

Funeral services to honor the life of Gerald Behning are to commence at two o’clock in the afternoon on Saturday, the 2nd day of August 2025, in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Dan Manuel officiating the service.

Friends are invited to visit with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at Rhone Funeral Home.

Mr. Behning will be laid to rest in Wynne, Arkansas on Tuesday, August 5th, 2025. Friends can meet at 9:30 am at the Kernodle Funeral Home located at 315 East Union Ave, Wynne, AR 72396. From there we’ll drive to Cogbill Cemetery where the graveside service is scheduled to begin at 10:00 am.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gerald Dale Behning, please visit our floral store.