James W. Eldridge, 71, of Huntsville, AL, passed away peacefully on Monday. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Eldridge; mother, Mildred Gillis Eldridge; children, Michelle Loverde and son-in-law, Dr. Joseph Loverde, Teresa Eldridge, Derek Eldridge, and Danielle Barkley; stepdaughter, Susan Collins; siblings, Merrilee Slack, Darlene Hare, Steven Eldridge, Robert Eldridge and Elizabeth Hardman; first wife, Bonnie Eldridge; and thirteen loving grandchildren. Mr. Eldridge was preceded in death by his father, William Owen Eldridge, and his brother, Thomas Eldridge. He will be greatly missed by his special kitty, Daisy.
Jim served in Vietnam from 1967 to 1969, and was with the U.S. Army for 10 plus years, working his way up to captain. He went on to work as an engineer at several power plants all over the U.S. and made many friends.
Jim prided himself on volunteer work for Crisis Services Center of North Alabama and the American Legion in Huntsville. He was an avid gardener and had an unbelievable passion for fishing. He was always quick witted and was there when you needed him. He will be truly missed by everyone.
Visitation will be from 1 to 2 p.m. Friday, July 15 at Laughlin Service Funeral Home, with a memorial service following in the chapel. There will be a light repast held at the American Legion on Drake Avenue in Huntsville immediately following. Jim was not a “suit” person-please dress casually.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Legion, 2900 Drake Ave SW, Huntsville, AL 35805.
