Jerry D. Eckenrod

July 17, 2015

MAJ Jerry D. Eckenrod (U.S. Army Ret.), 76, of Dothan, Alabama, died  peacefully at his residence on July 17, 2015.
At his request there will be a private service at a late date as he was cremated by Sunset Memorial Park Funeral Home. 

He was born December 10, 1938 in Elkin, N.C. to Robert Clay Eckenrod, Sr. and Beulah Wright Eckenrod. The retired major served 20 years in the U.S. Armed Services: two tours in Vietnam as an army helicopter pilot, paratrooper and commander. He was most proud of 17 Air medals, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, and receipt of the Broken Wing for having successfully piloted a disabled helicopter. His 20 years of service in both Air Force (8) and Army (12) were filled with awards and citations honoring his dedication to protect and defend his country.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Joan Maxine Rumschlag Eckenrod, Dothan; sons: Scott (Linda) Eckenrod, Cincinnati, Ohio and Mark (Carla) Eckenrod, Hartselle, Ala.; grandchildren: Benjamin, Sadie, Luke and Della; brothers: Norton L. Eckenrod, Bracketville, Texas and Ronnie Eckenrod, Easley, S.C. Preceding him in death were his father, Robert C Eckenrod Sr.; mother, Beulah Wright Eckenrod; brothers Alvin and Robert C Eckenrod Jr. 

Thanks to Hospice and Angel Hands Home Care for such good loving care.

Old soldiers die but linger in our minds and hearts and are loved always. In lieu of flowers and in remembrance of his sons please make donations to the Boys & Girls Clubs – Wiregrass (bgwiregrass.org).