Carl “Pops” Eldridge, age 83, passed away on March 16, 2026 in Jackson, Tennessee.
Born March 3, 1943 in Hardy, Arkansas, Carl lived a life defined by service, dedication, and love for his family. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy as a Petty Officer Third Class and Radar Man during the Vietnam War, including service aboard the U. S. S. Sacramento. Following his military service, Carl devoted 36 years of hard work to Bell South Telecommunications before retiring. He was also a proud member of the VFW in Union City, Tennessee.
Carl was known affectionately as “Pops” and “Papa” to many – a testament to his warm spirit, wisdom, and the deep care he showed to those around him. He will be remembered for his strength, his steady presence, and the lasting impact he made on his family and community.
He is survived by his three sons, Carl “Junior” (Christine) Eldridge, Mark (Beth) Thompson, and Brian Eldridge; his daughter, Cindy Eldridge; two stepchildren, Bradley “BJ” Montgomery and Richard (Deanna) Montgomery; his 11 grandchildren, Logan (Magan) Chesser, Torrie (Dustin) Diebold, Jared (Brittany) Eldridge, Austin Eldridge, Audrey (Heath) Jansen, Melody Joy, Haley Montgomery, Scott (Paige) Montgomery, Cameron Montgomery, Hunter (Lucy) Montgomery, and Chase Montgomery; and 13 great grandchildren, William Chesser, Elizabeth Chesser, Braxton Eldridge, Nolan Eldridge, Emery Eldridge, Caleb Eldridge, Jasper Eldridge, Truett Eldridge, Lily Montgomery, Harper Montgomery, Alivia Montgomery, Elon Montgomery, and Ethan Montgomery.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ambrose and Effie Eldridge; his two brothers, Hansel “Hank” Eldridge, Everette Eldridge; one sister, Vedia Ramsey; and his beloved wife of over 20 years, Annie Edith Eldridge.
Funeral services will be held at 7 pm, on Thursday, March 19, 2026 in the chapel of Pafford Funeral Home in Lexington.
Interment will take place at 9:30 AM on Friday, March 20, 2026 at the Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery in Parkers Crossroads. Escort from Pafford Funeral Home to final place of rest will leave at 9 AM for anyone who would like to partake.
Carl “Pops” Eldridge will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
