Eric began law enforcement as a bailiff for Jacksonville in the early 90’s, then began working as a corrections officer with Jacksonville. He later made his way to Clay County as a reserve officer and finally became a Clay County Sheriffs officer. Then with CCSO he joined multiple departments including the dive team, swat team, negations, robbery homicide and the honor guard. Eric was promoted to detective and a few years later promoted to sergeant. Along the way he had many accomplishments, two of which include the officer of the year and the medal of valor.
Outside of being an officer he was a father to three kids, six grandkids and two grand-fur babies. He was the type of dad to fix your front porch light in the middle of the night and drive 500 miles to help you move just for the day.
He loved traveling and being outside, you could always catch him taking a nap in his hunting blind. During his travels, he often spoke for the MS society and would give motivational speeches on coping with this disease throughout the country.
He is predeceased by his Nanny Helen, mom Joyce and dad Norm Twisdale. His aunt Calista and uncle Bill Thomas, Harley and Kit.
He is survived by his kids Katie, Thomas, and Stephanie and grandkids Cain, Declan, Finola, Jameson, Autumn, and grand baby six on the way. Eric is also survived by his brothers Norman and Tim, his sister Debbie as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces/nephews, cousins, and his second family at CCSO.
We would like to extend a special thank you to Director T, nurse Jackie, and nurse Mary at Baptist South Medical Center and his neurologist Dr. Snyder for all of their dedication, care and support through this difficult time.
Visitation will be held from 5:00pm to 7:30pm on Wednesday, September 23, 2020 at Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am on Thursday, September 24, 2020 at St. Luke Catholic Church, 1606 Blanding Boulevard, Middleburg, Florida 32068, followed by interment at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery, 4214 Loretto Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32223.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Donate.
Arrangements by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home of Mandarin, 11801 San Jose Boulevard, Jacksonville, Florida, (904) 288-0025.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18