Jackie Eugene Deckard (1932-1984)

Jackie Eugene Deckard was born a son of Elmer A. Deckard, and Mary Evalena (Love) Deckard, November 26, 1932 in Springfield, Missouri, and he departed this life June 27, 1984 at his home in Devil’s Elbow, Missouri at the age of 51.

On June 26, 1952 he was united in marriage to Ruth E. McNabb, and to this union four daughters were born.

He was a member of the Sudan Shrine Temple in New Bern, North Carolina.  He enlisted in the United States Army February 14, 1950 in Kansas City, Missouri.  He served for 10 years as an enlisted man, and 10 years as a Commissioned officer.  He received Jump Wings from three countries, and made 500 jumps while in the military.

While serving with Special Forces he had three tours of duty in Vietnam.  He served with a love of country, and with a devotion to duty and with integrity, and this was evidenced by his receiving numerous awards and service medals.

He retired a Major from the military, July 1, 1970, at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.  Upon retirement he and his family made their hone for 10 years in Fayetteville, North Carolina, after which they moved to Springfield, Missouri for two years, and the last two years he and his family made their home in the Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri area.  He worked several years with the American National Insurance Company, as a Assistance General Agent.  He was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.  He was known and will always be remembered by his family and friends as, “Happy Jack”.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth of the home; four daughters, Marilyn Van Muysen of Germany; Ruby McCulley of Panama; Deborah Green of California and Jackie Deckard of St. Robert, Missouri; three brothers Luther and Glenn Deckard both of Springfield, Missouri; and Carl Deckard of Warrenton, Missouri; five sisters Ruby Garrison of Republic, Missouri; Stalla Arnold of Tyler, Texas; Judy Long and Wanda Dill both of Springfield, Missouri; and Patsy Deckard of Alabama; and many other relatives and friends.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services for Jackie Eugene Deckard was held Monday, July 2, 1984 at 11:00 a.m. at the Waynesville Memorial Chapel.  Officiating at the service was Chaplain (Cpt.) William Daylong.  Music was provided by Marjorie Ling. Organist; and Janell Walters; Soloist.  Burial was in the National Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri.  Escorts were Military.  Under the direction of Waynesville Memorial Chapel of Waynesville, Missouri.