Yukon, to American parents. He was the boxing and wrestling champion of the U.S. Coast Guard during his military service, and he kept his burly physique. He graduated from the Martha Oatman School of the Theater in Los Angeles.

Jory toured with theatre troupes, including a July 1929 appearance at Elitch Theatre in The Racket, by Bartlett Cormack. He appeared as a "guest star" in the role of the Assistant District Attorney.