Sgt. George Jeffery Fuller
Sgt. George Jeffery Fuller, age 69, left to go to his heavenly home Oct. 16 at his home in Phil Campbell.
“Jeff,” as he was known by his friends, grew up in Russellville and was a graduate of the 1969 class at Russellville High School.
Jeff was most known for his exceptional athletic talent. He played football on the ’67, ’68 and ’69 three-year state championship football team. He was an outstanding running back (fullback) and kicker for his team. His number, “33,” became known in the area and among numerous colleges and universities that watched and sought to recruit him.
Jeff was a standout player from the time he first stepped on the field in junior high ball and received many awards. During his career he was awarded most valuable offensive back, leading rusher and top scorer in the TVC. He later was inducted into the Franklin County Football Hall of Fame.
Jeff believed in teamwork, always giving credit to his team for his successful efforts.
His love of football never left; however, continuing to be a leader, he joined the National Guard and was in Co. C 115th Signal Battalion, Sheffield.
His continued his belief in teamwork, and he received many Army Achievement Medals for working to instill and maintain a strong sense of values among his peers and subordinates.
To mention a few, he received the technical expertise and knowledge award, for providing communications, under adverse environmental conditions, demonstrating outstanding leadership. Also, as a “Signal Soldier,” Sgt. Fuller represented the very best traditions of the 115th Signal Battalion “First in Duty” by working many long and tiring days under extremely severe environmental conditions, demonstrating selfless leadership, attention to detail and the ability to adapt himself to any circumstance.
During his time of duty, he worked in Panama, South Korea and was part of the 115th Battalion in Iraq.
Jeff’s love of football, Army and the many friends he met along the way stayed close to his heart his entire life.
A remarkable personality, he was most proud to share his Christian faith to anyone that would listen. His love of Jesus Christ was first in his life.
The visitation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Oct. 21 at Spry Memorial Chapel, Russellville. The service will follow at 2 p.m. The burial will be at Mountain View Cemetery. Officiating will be Keith Prince.
He was a loving father, son and brother.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leslie Hill Fuller, and his parents, George Hollis Fuller and Thelma Boyd Fuller.
He leaves to cherish his memory a son that he loved and longed for, Cody Michael Fuller; sister, Julie Fuller Gargis (husband David); and nephews, David Isaac Gargis, Evan Fuller Gargis, Patrick Jeffrey Gargis and many dear cousins.
The pallbearers will be David Isaac Gargis, Evan Fuller Gargis, Patrick Jeffrey Gargis, Milton Gordon Boyd, Roger Dale Boyd and Jacob Hamilton.
Service will be with military honors presented by the American Legion.
Spry Memorial Chapel will assist the family.
Special thanks for the love and help from Fred and Sharin Dummar.
