Deemer Otto Self, age 92, of Huntsville, AL passed away July 29, 2024. He is survived by his wife Jimmie; daughter, Tammie Self Terry; sister in-law, Lucy Self; and two grandchildren, Joshua Terry (Emily) and Hollie Bolan (Jeffrey).
He was preceded in death by his father, Carl Self, mother Elizabeth Self, brother, James Self, and sister, Virginia Fowler (Robert).
Mr. Self was born in Toney, AL. He attended Hazel Green High School and continued his education at the University of North Alabama where he played football and basketball. During his college education he enlisted in the Air Force where he spent four years serving his country in Korea and Japan. Following his time in the Air Force, he continued his degree at Athens State and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Management. He began his career at Thiokol and transitioned to NASA where he worked on the Apollo, Skylab, and Space Shuttle programs. He adored his job and the people he worked alongside. This passion culminated in receiving the Space Flight Man of the Year Award and NASA Silver Snoopy Award.
Outside of work, Deemer was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was a kind and welcoming face to anyone he met and never failed to love those around him well. The most prominent part of his life was his constant love for Jesus. He was an active member of Jackson Way Baptist Church where he was a deacon for 37 years and boys’ Sunday school teacher for 50 years.
Following retirement, he found joy in spending time with his family, managing apartments, running a jewelry store, going to church, playing golf, attending ‘Shuttle Buddy’ breakfasts, gardening, and always making new friends.
Visitation is Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Laughlin Service Funeral Home, followed by the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. officiated by Pastor Travis Collins and Pastor John Pond. Burial will be in Maple Hill Cemetery.
