Category Archives: Post Everlasting

Francis “Frank” H. Maitland, Jr.

Francis “Frank” H. Maitland, Jr. It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Past 11th District Commander Francis “Frank” H. Maitland, Jr. of Stuart, Florida. Frank passed away on Friday, April 5, 2024, at the age of 75. He is survived by his wife, Jo Ann, and their children, Sara and Jason.

Details regarding services for Frank have not been finalized. Any updates regarding arrangements will be communicated via email and posted on the Department’s website.

Frank was a U.S. Navy Vietnam War Era Veteran and a member of Stuart Post 62. Frank was also a retired Fire Lieutenant with the City of Lynn, Massachusetts, and a dedicated member of the American Legion for 21 continuous years. He held various leadership positions throughout his membership, including Post Commander from 2009-2011 and 2012-2018. Additionally, he served as District Vice Commander from 2011-2013, followed by District Commander from 2013-2014.

If you wish to extend your condolences, you may do so through his wife, Jo Ann Maitland, at P.O. Box 1710, Stuart, FL 34995-1710.

Please join us in keeping Frank’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, and he will be dearly missed.


Raymond “Ray” A. Perez

Raymond Perez

With deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing of Past 16th District Commander Raymond “Ray” A. Perez of Madeira Beach, Florida. Ray passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the age of 70. He is survived by his fiancé, Maryellen Waskiewicz.

Details regarding Ray’s services have not been finalized. Any updates regarding arrangements will be communicated via email and posted on the Department’s website.

Ray served his country proudly for 35 years in the United States Army, spanning from 1971 through 2007. He also served as a dedicated member of the American Legion for 15 continuous years and was a member of Madeira Beach Post 273. He held various leadership positions throughout his membership, including Post Commander from 2016-2019, District Commander from 2017-2019, and Department Blood Donor Chair from 2019-2021. On a National level, Ray served on the National Security Council from 2018-2019, the National Legislative Council from 2019-2024, and the National Membership Committee from 2022-2024.

If you wish to extend your condolences, you may do so through his fiancé, Maryellen Waskiewicz, at 230 Medallion Blvd., Apt. D, Madeira Beach, FL 33708-1958.

Please join us in keeping Ray’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. His memory will continue to inspire us, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 


John P. Bell

With a heavy heart, we inform you of the passing of Past 16th District Commander John P. Bell of St. Pete Beach, Florida. John passed away on Sunday, March 31, 2024, at the age of 79. He is survived by his wife, Department Auxiliary President Denise “Dee” Bell, and their children: daughters Renee, Nicole, and Samantha, and son John Jr.

Details regarding John’s services have not been finalized yet. Any updates regarding arrangements will be emailed and posted on the Department’s website.

John proudly served his country as a United States Navy Vietnam War Era Veteran.

John, a member of Treasure Island Post 158, served as a dedicated member of the American Legion for 27 continuous years. He held various leadership positions throughout his membership, including Post Commander from 2003-05, 2009-10, and 2012-14. Additionally, he served as District 16 Vice Commander from 2013-15, followed by District 16 Commander from 2015-16.

If you wish to extend your condolences, please do so through his wife, President Dee Bell, at 326 72nd Ave., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706-1913. In lieu of flowers, President Dee is requesting donations be made to Bay Pines Hospice or American Legion Boys State.

Please keep John’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, and he will be dearly missed.

 

***UPDATE***

The Interment Service for Past 16th District Commander John P. Bell will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at Bay Pines National Cemetery, located at 10000 Bay Pines Blvd., St. Petersburg, FL. Following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM at Post 158, located at 111 108th Ave., Treasure Island, FL.


Robert “Bob” S. Jaegers

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Past Department Judge Advocate Robert “Bob” S. Jaegers of Jupiter, Florida. Bob passed away on Monday, March 25, 2024, at the age of 71. He is survived by his wife, Denise, and their children: daughters Heidi and Kathryn, and sons Robert and Charles.

As of now, details regarding services for Bob have not been finalized. Any updates regarding arrangements will be communicated to you via email and will also be posted on the Department’s website.

Bob dedicated 31 years of service as a Palm Beach County Assistant State Attorney before retiring in 2019. He also served his country proudly for 28 years in the United States Air Force, spanning from 1977 through 2005.

Bob, a member of Tequesta Post 271, served as a dedicated member of the American Legion for 34 continuous years. Throughout his membership, he held various leadership positions, including Post Commander from 1993-94, 2004-06, and 2020-23, as well as Post Judge Advocate from 1990-93, 2010-20, and 2023 until the present. Additionally, he served as District Judge Advocate from 2006-17 and 2018-2021, and later as Department Judge Advocate from 2021-2022, followed by Department Assistant Judge Advocate from 2022-2023.

If you wish to extend your condolences, you may do so through his wife, Denise Jaegers, at 12600 189th Ct. N, Jupiter, FL 33478-3787.

Please keep Bob’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him, and he will be dearly missed.


Joseph “Joe” A. Maichle

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of 5th District 1st Vice Commander Joseph “Joe” A. Maichle of Jacksonville, Florida. Joe passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, at the age of 75. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; his three daughters, Tricia, Dawn, and Nicole; six grandchildren, Adrianna, Victoria, Kylie, Zoe, Trevor, and Bailey; one great-grandson, Strieder; his mother, Cathline; and five brothers, Ronald, Kenny, Billy, John, and Bruce.

Joe was a dedicated member of the New Castle County Division of Police from 1972 to 1996. Senior Corporal Maichle was highly respected by his colleagues and described as a wonderful friend, always willing to help, incredibly funny, and a great investigator.

In addition to his service in law enforcement, Joe proudly served his country as a United States Air Force Vietnam War Era Veteran. He was a member of Jacksonville Post 129, with 17 continuous years of membership. Joe held various leadership positions within the American Legion, including Post Commander from 2017-2024 and 5th District Vice Commander from 2022-2024. He also served as Department Credentials Chair from 2022-2024.

If you wish to extend your condolences, you may do so through his wife, Kathy Maichle, at 12474 Collinswood Dr. S., Jacksonville, FL 32225.

Services to honor Joe’s life are as follows:

 Visitation

  • Tuesday, March 5th – 5 PM to 7 PM
  • Beaches Chapel by Hardage-Giddens
  • 1701 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville Beach, FL

Funeral Service

  • Wednesday, March 6th – 11:30 AM
  • St. Paul’s Catholic Church
  • 523 Pablo Ave., Jacksonville Beach, FL

Burial Service

  • Wednesday, March 6th – 2 PM
  • Jacksonville National Cemetery
  • 4083 Lannie Rd., Jacksonville, FL

Celebration of Life

  • Saturday, March 16th – 2 PM
  • American Legion Post 129
  • 1151 4th St. S, Jacksonville Beach, FL

Please keep Joe’s family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.


Robert Hughes

Post 163 Commander Robert Hughes passed away on Monday, October 16, 2023, at the age of 83. Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Brownlie Maxwell Funeral Home, 1010 Palmetto Ave., Melbourne, Florida. The viewing will be from 9:30 AM – 11 AM.


Charles F. “Charlie” Shoudy, Jr

The Department of Florida Headquarters was just notified of the passing of Past Southwestern Area Commander Charles F. “Charlie” Shoudy, Jr., of Waterville, ME (formerly of Sarasota, FL).  Charlie passed away on September 7, 2022, at the age of 69.  Please see Charlie’s obituary below. Condolences can be sent to his wife, Debra Shoudy Adams, at 14 Ash St., Waterville, ME 04901.

Charles F. Shoudy, Jr., “Charlie,” 69, of Waterville, ME (formerly of Sarasota, FL), passed away peacefully on September 07, 2022 surrounded by the love, strength, and support of loved ones at Central Maine Medical Center.

Charles was born on July 23, 1953 to Charles F. Shoudy, Sr. and Margaret Shoudy in Mount Holly, New Jersey. After graduation, Charlie went on to be a lifelong proud Army man, specializing in Field Artillery, including being stationed overseas in Germany for multiple years. He also enjoyed his time as an Army Recruiter. Charlie married the love of his life, Debra (Adams) Shoudy, on July 23, 1994. Charlie and Debbie moved from Maine to Florida and back home to Maine again; welcomed many beautiful grandchildren and made a lifetime of beautiful memories.

Charlie was a determined, charismatic, force of nature who loved his family. During his military years he was also a competitive bowler, often scoring a perfect 300. He loved to make people laugh, continuing right up to the end, even cracking jokes with the life flight pilot that transported him to CMMC. This charm made him a favorite among participants when he was calling bingo, an activity he loved to do. Charlie was unendingly proud of his service in the military and passionate about the United States of America. He never saw an American flag without taking a moment for a salute. The only thing he was more proud of than his military service was his family. He loved to brag about his children and grandchildren.

Charlie was a lifelong American Legion member, including time spent as Post Commander at Post 51 in Oakland, ME, Post Commander at Post 312 in Oneco, FL, and 2nd Vice Commander at Post 5 in Waterville, ME. He was Legionnaire of the Year in 2015 at Post 5 in Waterville, ME. Every year for as long as he was capable, you would find Charlie proudly marching in many Veterans Day parades wearing his dress blues. He was invited to speak at a local school’s Veterans Day celebration as well, making his attending grandchildren proud.

Charlie was predeceased by his parents Charles Sr. and Margaret Shoudy; mother-in-law Sally Adams; Sister Catherine Folk and her son; and brother Mike Wasserman. He is survived by his wife Debra Shoudy and their children Trenton Dyer, Kirsten Dyer, Brysenn Dyer; son Jason Stevens with wife Lydia Stevens and their children Caimbree and Callum; daughter Nikole Fowler with husband Branden Fowler and their children Noah, Sophia, Reed, and Quinn; daughter Jennifer Stanfill and her sons Chandler and Gavin; son Aaron Shoudy; daughter Hallie Stevens; brother Chris Shoudy with wife Tami-Lynn; Nephew Matthew Shoudy with wife Amber and their kids Mason, Madison, Dustin; brother Joey Wasserman and family, sister Carol Wasserman and family, father-in-law & partner in crime “Oopee” Jim Adams, sister-in-law Brenda Athy with husband Greg, and many other loved family and friends.


Thomas C. “TC” Biddle

With deep sadness, we report the passing of Past Department Eastern Area Commander Thomas C. “TC” Biddle of Fruitland Park, Florida, who passed away on Friday, October 6, 2023, at the age of 80. He is survived by his wife, Leonora Biddle. At this time, there are no details regarding services. Any new information will be communicated to you through email as well as posted on the Department’s website.

TC was a U.S. Army Vietnam Era Veteran and a Lady Lake Post 347 member with 32 continuous years of membership. TC served as Post Commander from 2006-07. At the Department level, he served as 6th District Commander from 2013-15, Law & Order Chair from 2017-18, and Eastern Area Commander from 2015-16 & 2019-21. At the National level, he served on the National Security Council from 2014-16.

If you would like to send your condolences, you may do so through his wife, Leonora Biddle, at 3434 Trout Ave., Fruitland Park, FL 34731-6318.

 

Committal Service
The committal service for Past Eastern Area Commander Thomas C. “TC” Biddle, will be held on Friday, October 27, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, Florida, with full Military Honors from American Legion Post 347 in Lady Lake. A Celebration of Life will be held following the service at American Legion Post 347, 699 W. Lady Lake Blvd., Lady Lake, FL

Family and friends will be gathering at the post at 9:30 AM on Friday to process down to the cemetery.

Obituary for Thomas C Biddle

In Loving Memory: Thomas “TC” Biddle (May 17, 1943 – October 6, 2023)

Thomas “TC” Biddle, born on May 17, 1943, in Youngstown, Ohio, peacefully departed this life on October 6, 2023, at Cornerstone Hospice in Tavares, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Leonora; his sister, Barbara Hall; his step-brother, Ray Toney; his nephew, Rob West, and niece, Lisa Shapiro.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Biddle; his mother, Frances Toney; his brothers, Jack, Robert, and Charles III; and his sister, Janice.

Throughout his lifetime, TC dedicated himself wholeheartedly to serving his nation and community. As a valiant combat veteran of the Vietnam War, he proudly served in the US Army 173rd Airborne. Following his distinguished military service, TC embarked on a career as a boat captain, navigating the waters of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, aboard the Jungle Queen and the America, renowned as the World’s Largest Catamaran from the Port of Miami.

Subsequently, he transitioned to a career in law enforcement, serving with honor in the Florida Department of Corrections, Metro Dade Department of Corrections, and the Miami Dade Schools Police. TC’s commitment to service extended to his volunteer work with unwavering dedication for The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Team, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, and the Moose Lodge. In 2003, TC retired from the Miami Dade Schools police, culminating a fulfilling career of unending service.

As a proud veteran, TC assumed various leadership roles within The American Legion, progressing from local Post offices to the positions of Commander of Post 219, 6th District Commander, Law and Order Chair, Eastern Area Commander for the Department of Florida, and served on the National Security Council. His unwavering dedication and 32 years of membership was recognized when he was named Legionnaire of the Year for Post 347 in 2017-2018. At the time of his passing, TC was faithfully serving as the Assistant Judge Advocate for American Legion Post 347 in Lady Lake, Florida, an esteemed distinction within the largest American Legion Post in the world.

Thomas “TC” Biddle’s enduring legacy of service, camaraderie, and resolute commitment to his country and community will forever be cherished and remembered by all fortunate enough to have known him. He stood as a remarkable friend and mentor, offering a helping hand in times of need and embodying resilience and bravery throughout his life’s journey.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to either Cornerstone Hospice Foundation, 2445 Lane Park Rd., Tavares, FL 32778 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2631 Hylan Blvd. Staten Island, NY.10306 in memory of Thomas “TC” Biddle.


Claude “Sisco” Deen, Jr.

With deep sadness, we report the passing of Past Department Boys Scout Chair Claude “Sisco” Deen, Jr., of Flagler Beach, Florida, who passed away on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at the age of 83. He is survived by his wife, Gloria; 3 sons (from a previous marriage), Devin, Brian, and Sisco; their children, Evan, Billy, Sage, Scarlet, Jasper, and Juliana; and Gloria’s sons, Seth and David; their children, Hannah, Tom, and Elsa.

Sisco was a U.S. Air Force Vietnam Era Veteran and a Flagler Post 115 member, with 58 continuous years of membership. Sisco served as Post Commander from 1997-99. At the Department level, he served as Boys Scout Chair from 1986-02 and Scholarship Chair from 2000-02. At the National level, he served on the Legislative Council from 1987-90, 1993-94, and 1999.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 pm on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at the Cattleman’s Hall at the Flagler County Fairgrounds, 150 Sawgrass Rd., Bunnell, FL 32110.

Condolences may be sent to his family at P.O. Box 637, Flagler Beach, FL 32136.

To view Sisco’s obituary: Claude Sisco Deen Jr. Obituary – Flagler Beach, FL (dignitymemorial.com)


John “Michael” Speck

It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Past Department Comptroller, John “Michael” Speck, of Winter Springs, Florida, who passed away on Sunday, July 23, 2023, at the age of 74. Michael is survived by his son, Jason Michael Speck. There are no details regarding services at this time, but any new information will be communicated through email and posted on our website.

Michael was a U.S. Army Vietnam War Era Veteran and an Orlando Memorial Post 19 member, with 34 continuous years of membership. He served as Department Comptroller from 1988-2022. Michael was awarded for his 34 years of dedication and service as Department Comptroller during the 104th Department Convention (see the photo below).

Condolences may be sent to Jason Michael Speck, C/O The American Legion, Department of Florida, P.O. Box 547859, Orlando, FL 32854.


Dennis R. Bruland

Dennis R. BrulandWith deep regret, we report the passing of Past Southwestern Area Commander Dennis R. Bruland of Punta Gorda, Florida, who passed away on Monday, April 17, 2023, at the age of 74.

The Department was just made aware of the services for Dennis, which will be held today. The Burial Service will be held from 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm at the Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Rd., Sarasota, FL 34241. A Celebration of Life will be held following the Burial Service at 4:30 pm at Moose Lodge 2121, 3624 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte, FL 33952.

 

Dennis was a U.S. Army Vietnam War Era Veteran. He was a member of Punta Gorda Post 103 with 46 continuous years of membership. Dennis served as Post Commander from 2006-2007, 13th District Commander from 2006-2008, and Southwestern Area Commander from 2008-2009. At the Department level, he served as Department Veterans Preference Chair from 2007-2009, Department Law & Order Chair from 2009-2010, and Veterans Benefits Chair from 2014-2016. At the National level, he served on the Constitution and By-Laws Committee from 2006-2017 and the Legislative Council from 2015-2019.

 

At this time, there are no details regarding where to send condolences. Any new information will be communicated to you through email as well as posted on the Department’s website.

 


George T. Pinner, Jr.

With deep regret we report the passing of Past 15th District Commander George T. Pinner, Jr. of Tampa, Florida, who passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at the age of 91. He is survived by his Children; 2 daughters: Debbie Pinner and Sandy Riley; two sons: George T. Pinner, III (Chip) and Michael McHerron.
On May 12, 1956, he married the love of his life Betty Lee. He worked for CXS railroad for 40 years (previously named Atlantic and Seaboard Coastline). After the passing of his beloved wife, George met Jeannie York, with whom he spent the last 21 years. Sadly, Jeannie passed away 16 days before George.

George was a U.S. Army Korean War Veteran. He was a member of Tampa Post 152 with 36 continuous years of membership. George served as Post Commander from 1998-1999 and 2000-2001 and 15th District Commander from 2002-2003. He also served on many committees and was very involved with Boys State.

The Burial Service will be held at 1 pm on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at the National Cemetery in Bushnell. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Tampa Bay Community Church, 3318 Moran Rd, Tampa, Florida 33618.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations to Hospice of Tampa or Tampa Bay Community Church.
With deep regret we report the passing of Past 15th District Commander George T. Pinner, Jr. of Tampa, Florida, who passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at the age of 91. He is survived by his Children; 2 daughters: Debbie Pinner and Sandy Riley; two sons: George T. Pinner, III (Chip) and Michael McHerron.

On May 12, 1956, he married the love of his life Betty Lee. He worked for CXS railroad for 40 years (previously named Atlantic and Seaboard Coastline). After the passing of his beloved wife, George met Jeannie York, with whom he spent the last 21 years. Sadly, Jeannie passed away 16 days before George.

George was a U.S. Army Korean War Veteran. He was a member of Tampa Post 152 with 36 continuous years of membership. George served as Post Commander from 1998-1999 and 2000-2001 and 15th District Commander from 2002-2003. He also served on many committees and was very involved with Boys State.

The Burial Service will be held at 1 pm on Thursday, March 23, 2023, at the National Cemetery in Bushnell. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 pm on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Tampa Bay Community Church, 3318 Moran Rd, Tampa, Florida 33618.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations to Hospice of Tampa or Tampa Bay Community Church.


Tony King

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the death of our comrade, Tony King. Tony passed away Sunday, January 22, 2023 after a long battle with cancer.

Tony King was a long-time member and acting commander for the Robert H.L. Dabney American Legion Post 192 in Tice Florida.

Please keep his wife, kids and family in your prayers as they deal with this giant loss in their lives.

Please send flowers and cards to:

  • 263 Richmond Ave
    South Lehigh Acres, FL 33936

 


PDC Reginald Beverly

PDC Reginald Beverly 2003-2004

PDC Reginald Beverly 2003-2004

It is with deep regret that we report the passing of Past Department Commander Reginald C. Beverly of Bear, Delaware, at the age of 89. Reginald is survived by his wife, Evelyn C. Beverly; son, Reginald C. Beverly, Jr.; and daughter, Larita R. Mason. The service will be held on Saturday, February 4, 2023, with time and location TBD. Any new details regarding services will be communicated to you through email and posted on our website.

Reginald was a U.S. Air Force Korean War Era Veteran and a member of Port Orange Post 270, with 37 continuous years of membership. He served in every capacity within the Post, most predominately having served as Post Commander for four consecutive years from 1994-98. Under his leadership, the Post increased its membership and achieved an All-Time High. He served as 17th District Commander from 1997-99. During 2000-01, Reginald served as Department Membership Chair. He led the Department to achieve an All-Time High and was awarded the General Henri Gouraud Trophy for being the first Department to reach 100% in its category.  Reginald served as Northern Area Commander from 2001-02, Department Vice Commander from 2002-03, and Department Commander from 2003-04. At the National level, he served on the Americanism Council from 1999-01 and the Foreign Relations Council from 2001-09.

If you would like to send your condolences, you may do so through his wife, Evelyn C. Beverly, at 35 Nairn Ln., Bear, DE 19701-4757.

—-UPDATE—-

The Memorial Service for Past Department Commander Reginald C. Beverly, Sr., will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at Scarlet Note Church, 20 East Commons Boulevard, Suite 100, New Castle, DE 19720.


James McBride

We the Members of Robert Bethel Post 220 deeply regret announcing the passing of our Fellow Comrade William McBride. Comrade McBride Passed on Thursday, June 29, 2022. The service will be held Saturday, July 9, 2022. time and Location TBA


Madeline (Lindy) Jordan

With our sincerest condolences, we are sad to announce that Madeline (Lindy) Jordan passed away yesterday, July 17, 2022, at 5:00 pm in Charlotte, NC.  Lindy was Past Commander of  Flagler Post 115, Past Commander, 17th District, served on Department Committees, and the nurse at Boys State during my tenure as Director.

Several years ago, she sold her home in Palm Coast and moved to Charlotte to be near her family.  She was very active in Legion work prior to her departure from Florida.  She traveled extensively participating in Legion golf tournaments.  She was a high-spirited, fun lady, but also very dedicated and committed to Legion work.

Anyone wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at the following address:

14901 Wyndham Oaks, Charlotte, NC 28277.


Norma J. Walker

Norma J. Walker (Dept of South Carolina) 143 California Ave, Oak Ridge, TN 37830-4001, died June 10, 2022 at the age of 81. Source: Department Adjutant. A Vietnam War Navy Veteran and a member of Post #71 with 38 continuous years of membership. ID#100934562.

Memorial donations may be made to American Legion Post 71 at PO Box 6036, North Augusta, SC 29861-6063.
Condolences may be shared online at weatherfordmortuary.com or William Walker and family at 143 California Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN 37830.

RECORD:

Dept Americanism Chmn 7-01-2002 to 7-01-2003
Dept Civil Defense Chmn 7-01-2002 to 7-01-2003
Dept Commander 7-01-2004 to 7-01-2005
Dept Convention Chmn 7-01-2005 to 6-24-2006
Dept Historian 6-23-2007 to 6-02-2013
Dept Internal Affairs Chmn 7-01-2003 to 7-01-2004
Dept M&PA Chmn 7-01-2003 to 7-01-2004
Dept National Security Chmn 7-01-2001 to 7-01-2002
Dept Public Relations Chmn 7-01-2002 to 7-01-2004; 7-01-2008 to
7-01-2009
Dept Vice Commander 7-01-2001 to 7-01-2004
Natl Americanism Council Vice Chmn 2002 to 2003
Natl M&PA Committee Memb 2004 to 2010
Natl Security Council Vice Chmn 2001 to 2002


Clifford Dean Collins Jr.

OBITUARY

CLIFFORD DEAN COLLINS Jr.

MAY 18, 1946 – JUNE 15, 2022

Clifford D. (Skip) Collins, Jr. Vietnam Veteran, U.S. Navy

Loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend passed away peacefully Wednesday June 15, 2022 in Ocoee, FL after a long illness at age 76. Born in Davenport Iowa to the late Clifford D. Collins, Sr. and L. Elaine (Handley) Collins. He was predeceased by his sister Cheryl (Collins) Sargent and nephew Joseph (Joey) Platt. He is survived by his wife JoAnn (Flannery) Collins of Ocoee FL, his son Clifford D. (Dean) Collins, III, his sisters Barbara (Barbie) Platt and Mary Helen Collins-Weldon all of Jacksonville FL, his stepsons Gregory Blotzer of MA, Brian and Kevin Blotzer both of FL, 6 grandchildren, Christopher Brock of AL, Aryette and Emilyn Collins of FL, Ethan and Ava Blotzer of FL and Esme of MA.

Growing up the son of an Insurance salesman his family moved several times from Iowa to Pennsylvania to Florida before settling in Jacksonville when his dad began working for the US Postal Service becoming President of the Postal Union. It was while living in Pittsburgh that he became a lifelong fan of (in this order) the Pirates, the Steelers and the Penguins. He joined the Navy in 1967 during the Vietnam war where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and Meritorious Unit Commendation. After Honorable discharge he briefly attended Georgia Tech and the University of Florida, Gainesville before starting to work for Seaboard Coastal Railroad which later became CSX Railroad. After leaving the railroad he opened King Video in Jacksonville and when Blockbuster took over the video scene he sold it and started a home renovation business where he bought run down houses and brought them back to their original beauty. He enjoyed turning houses into homes. Sadly, that business came to an end when we moved to Ocoee. He gained employment with the American Legion, Department of Florida working with what began as the Gilchrist Fund and evolved into what is presently Project VetRelief. He assisted countless Veterans obtain financial assistance with rent and utilities. He also had the privilege of being on an Honor Flight, being the escort of a WWII Veteran. In his time working at The American Legion he made several lifelong friends. He never met a stranger. Cliff was a kind and caring soul, he will be forever loved and missed.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to your local Humane Society or Project Vet-Relief, both organizations were special to Cliff.

A gathering of family and friends to Celebrate Cliff will be held at The American Legion, Department Headquarters 1912 A Lee Rd., Orlando FL 32810 on Saturday, August 13, 2022 from 11am to 4pm.


William “Bill” Walsh

Funeral Services for Past Eastern Area Commander William “Bill” Walsh, who passed away on June 14, 2022, will be held on Tuesday, July 12, 2022. The interment will occur at Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave., Bushnell, FL, at 10:00 A.M. A Celebration of Life will follow at Post 347, 699 W. Lady Lake Blvd., Lady Lake, FL.


Mark Wilson

It is with deep sorrow and regret that I must announce the passing of Post Commander of 139, Mark Wilson.  He passed away yesterday May 4th.  As more details on his services become available I will inform everyone.  Please keep his family and the Post 139 family in your thoughts and prayers.