John Allen Bandy

BANDY, JOHN ALLEN (SERGEANT MAJOR RETIRED), of Pinson, AL, passed away Sunday, April 22, 2012 in the comfort of his home at the age of 79. A U.S. Army veteran, he served in Germany, France, Belgium, Japan, Alaska, and Viet Nam. His last assignment was with the Defense Intelligence Agency at the Pentagon. Mr. Bandy was also an award-winning teacher who held a Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degree in Education, and taught 5th grade at Pinson Elementary for nineteen years. He earned many honors and awards including: Alabama Congress of Parents and Teachers Outstanding Elementary Teacher of the Year Award, district winner for the Alabama Teacher of the Year Award, the Jefferson County Board of Education Teacher of the Year Award, and a finalist for the State of Alabama Teacher of the Year Award. Mr. Bandy is also a published author having written three books, including a book of poetry entitled “Visions,” a children’s book written and dedicated to his first grandson entitled “The Eagle in the Apple Tree,” and an autobiography, “When Whippoorwills Call.” After retirement, he spent most of his days with his grandchildren, who were the loves of his life. John was preceded in death by a sister, Bernice Newman, and a brother, Edwin C. Bandy. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Cathy Bandy, 2 daughters, Stephanie Bandy Allison (Scott), and Stacy Leigh Bandy, 3 grandchildren, Garrett, Taylor, and Lydia Allison, one sister, Mildred Tortoriello, of Ocala, Florida, 2 brothers, Hugh Bandy, of Hoover, Al and Richard Bandy, of Woodstock, Al, several nieces and nephews, and Billy Robertson and Les Bannister, who were very special to the family.

Graveside services will be held at Moncrief Cemetery on Friday, April 27, 2012, beginning at 2:00 pm, officiated by Dr. R. A. Ginn.