In Memory of

Colonel

Lenoard

Bruce

Crain

(Ret.)

Obituary for Colonel Lenoard Bruce Crain (Ret.)

Colonel Lenoard Bruce Crain (Ret.) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on January 14, 2023 at the age of 92.

He was known to many as “Len” or “Colonel.” The Colonel was a graduate of Auburn University and remained a lifelong fan. He played baseball in high school and as a Freshman at Auburn.

A Veteran of Korean and Vietnam wars, he was a decorated Army pilot. His military awards included the Legion of Merit, 3 Bronze Stars, the Meritorious Service Medal, 4 Air Medals, and 2 Army Commendation Medals. During his service, the Colonel had the honor of flying many historic figures such as Wenher von Braun the “Father of Space Travel”, and General Schwarzkopf. He retired in 1979 after 26 years of service with the rank of Colonel.

A gifted gardener, wood worker, and chicken-raiser, the Colonel spent his retirement years enjoying the pleasures of country life in the town of his birth Thomaston, Alabama.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ellie; his father, Warren; mother, Louise; and sisters, Vivian and Claudia.

He is survived by his son, Bruce Crain (Angie); and daughter, Kimberly Lyons (Kelley); five grandchildren, Samantha Hepstall (Jamie), Cody McGhee, Maggie Crain (Jay), Katie Crain, and Elijah Crain (Madison); five great grandchildren, Rex, Charlie, Waylon, Munro, and Finn. He is also survived by his dearest friend, Jackie Shields who has been his constant companion for the past 14 years.

Visitation will be held at O'Bryant Chapel Funeral Home in Linden, AL on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm. Graveside funeral services will be held on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 2:00 pm at Thomaston Cemetery.

Arrangements by O'Bryant Chapel Funeral Home.