Jerry Roy Varnon Sr.

Jerry Roy Varnon Sr. (Army LTC Ret.) of Annandale, VA passed-away on September 7, 2020 at Inova Fairfax Hospital surrounded by his family at the age of 86. He was born in Commerce, Missouri on October 14, 1933 to the late Roy F. Varnon and Anna Geraldine Noland Varnon. In November 1955, he was drafted into the Army. During the peace-time period (1955-’61), he rapidly progressed through eight ranks (5 enlisted, 2 warrant officer, 1 commissioned) with five serial numbers (US, RA, WO, USAR, RA) receiving three honorable discharges (US to RA, to WO, to USAR), receiving three commissions (Warrant Officer, USAR and Regular Army). Honor Graduate: Basic Training, Advanced Infantry Training, Primary Helicopter Flight School, and Transport Helicopter Flight School. Distinguished Military Graduate of Infantry Officer Candidate School. Honor graduate in Aircraft Maintenance Officer course and Honor graduate in the Maintenance Test Pilot course. Jerry married Sandra O’Shea in Virginia on October 14, 1960. He served 2 tours of duty in Vietnam. He served as the U.S. Army Vietnam Staff Aircraft Maintenance Officer for 4,500 aircraft. Jerry attended Embry-Riddle University, Florida, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science and an Associate of Science in Aviation Management (1971). During his 2 tours in Germany, the pride of his Army career was his command of the 295th Aviation Co. (Heavy Helicopter) Mainz, Germany. The company was well-known around the world for its support of U.S. Forces and NATO allies. Among the assets were ten of the giant sky cranes. He was fondly referred to as “Sky Crane Six” in the skies over Europe. As an Aviator, he was qualified in 26 models of Army helicopters and airplanes. As a result of the dynamic accomplishments of the 295th Aviation Company, it was nominated by the 11th Aviation Association of America – “Aviation unit of the year”. At the C&GS College, he earned a Master of Military Art and Science (1976). Throughout his career, he earned recognition and was awarded: The Legion of Merit, Purple Heart, two Bronze Stars, five Air Medals, two Meritorious Service Medals, Good Conduct Medal and several campaign/ other medals in addition to Expert Infantry Badge, Aviator, Senior Aviator, and Master Aviator Badges, WWII AOM Berlin, Germany, Department of the US Army Staff Badge, Aviation Cross. Jerry proudly served his country in the Army for 26 years. He served in the Pentagon U.S. Army ODCSOPS Requirements Directorate as the Aviation Team Chief until his retirement in 1981. Upon retiring, Jerry became the Broker/ Owner of M.A.M.I.R.E. Realty, Inc. He was a successful Realtor for 40+ years with over 5,000 transactions. (NVAR Life Member Top Producers Club and NVAR Life Member Million Dollar Sales Club) He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite and Shriners. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother Robert (Bob) L. Varnon. Jerry was a wonderful husband, caring and devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sandra, of almost 60 years. He was the loving father of Jerry R. Varnon Jr., Debra L. Varnon, and Christine M. (Richard D.) Farmer. He was an attentive grandfather (“Papa”) of Kayla Varnon, Jordan Farmer, Samantha Schuldt, Alexandra Varnon, Elizabeth Varnon, Anna Schuldt and Cameron Farmer. In the future, a Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at the Fort Myer Old Chapel, Arlington, VA. Interment will follow at Arlington National Cemetery. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.murphy-fh.com for the Varnon family.