Gerald Gerry M. Decatur, 79, a long-time resident of Troy died unexpectedly on Friday, December 23, 2016. He passed peacefully in the comfort of his home.
Gerald was born the son of the late Julia (White) and Verne Decatur on October 31, 1937 in Troy. He was educated in Keene and graduated from Keene High School class of 1955.
Soon after high school he entered the United States Air Force. He served during the Korean War and Vietnam War as a Weapons and Small Arms Technician / Instructor. He served for 20 years retiring honorably on November 30, 1975 at the rank of Staff Sergeant E-5.
On November 15, 1961, he exchanged vows with Shirley G. Fultz. They were married in a simple service at the Elder Mormon Church in Ogden, Utah with close friends and family in attendance. Sadly, Shirley passed on April 17, 2015 after 53 years of marriage.
Gerry was a long-time member of the Trinitarian Congregational Church of Troy serving on various boards and committees. He enjoyed metal detecting, anything to do with guns and a little fishing every now and then. Time was spent going to yard sales to find treasures. He was very social and enjoyed having coffee with family and friends.
Mr. Decatur is survived by his sons; Michael T. Decatur of Troy and Martin B. Decatur and his wife Lisa of Troy and five grandchildren Brian Scott of Keene and Julie, Jennifer, Rush and Sasha Decatur of Troy. One great grandchild Adelyne Whippie of Troy.
His siblings; Dawn Rice and her husband Leroy of Keene and Janie Straham of Fl. In addition, he leaves cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Gerry is pre-deceased by his brother Thomas Decatur who passed recently on January 6, 2017 and Verne Decatur who passed earlier.
A combined celebration of life service for Gerry and his brother Tom will be held on Sunday, January 22, 2017 at 2pm. in the Trinitarian Congregational Church of Troy, South Main St. Troy, NH. 03465. Burial will take place in the spring in a family lot with military honors at Mountain View Cemetery in Troy. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home and Crematories, 46 South Winchester St. Swanzey, NH. 03446. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com.
