Jerl Edwin Freeland (1944 - 2017)
Jerl "Cudd" Freeland, 73, of Kerrville, TX passed away on May 14, 2017 at Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Hospital in San Antonio, TX. He was born March 30, 1944 near Shinnston, WV. He served his country during three tours in the Vietnam War. Due to his bravery, he received a Battlefield Commission. He earned two Silver Stars, Bronze Star, and Bronze Star with Valor, Air Medal, and Air Medal with Valor, two Purple Hearts, and ARCOM (Army Commendation Medal)while serving in the 75th Rangers, American Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. He also earned the National Defense Service Medal, , Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, a Combat Infantry Badge, a Parachutist Badge, and four overseas bars. He worked as a coal miner for 28 years until retiring. He loved to ride and raise Quarter horses, which he did most of his life. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge #60 and Order of the Eastern Star Chapter No. 39 in Duncan, OK. For most of his retirement, Jerl was an advocate for his fellow veterans and counselled younger generations suffering from PTSD. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lana Pamela Freeland; three sons: Todd (Brenda) Freeland of Mannington, WV, Scott Freeland of La Porte, TX, and Chris Freeland of Baytown, TX; a daughter, Leanna (Denny) Efaw of Mannington, WV; and a step-son, Jimmy (Tonya) Lemley also of Mannington, WV; five grandchildren, Mia Cole, Heather Reese, Alexis Eddy, Aeriss Efaw, and Gavan Lemley; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Betty Freeland. At the request of the deceased, cremation has taken place.
Family and friends may call at Masters Funeral Home, 209 Main St., Mannington, WV on Wednesday, June 14, 2017 from 2-5 pm. A memorial service will be held at 5:00 pm at the funeral home conducted by Reverend Bill Kuhn. Full military rites will be conducted by the U.S. Army and Marion County Veteran's Council Honor Guard at the funeral home parking lot.
Condolences
I'm saddened by your loss. I didn't think the day would ever come when That Jerl would pass. I thank God for crossing our paths . It has been such an honor to have known him. My prayers be with the family. Mark. M
My prayers go out to Pam and all of the family. I feel very blessed to have known Jerl. He was that once in a lifetime person. He will be missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.
Pamala and family, We are so sorry to hear of Jerl's passing. Just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during your time of loss. Peace be with you and yours, Duncan Chapter #39 Order of the Eastern Star