Jerry Troxell was born in Sabetha, Kansas, where he attended high school. He went on to receive his art education degree from Kansas State Teachers College. Later, he received his MFA from Emporia State University. He taught art at Emporia High School for 36 years before retiring. He inspired many of his students throughout his teachings and was beloved amongst students. "Teaching, even on the worst day, is better than most jobs on a good day"-Jerry Troxwell.