SGM Darius G. Cecil, US Army (Ret)

SGM  Darius G. Cecil, US Army (Ret)

Darius Cecil was born March 4, 1938 in Ohio and passed away July 10, 2010, in a Killeen, Texas hospital, at the age of 72.

Darius proudly served his country for over 33 years in the United States Army, retiring with the rank of Sergeant Major. His service included tours of duty in Korea and Vietnam.  His many military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters and ten awards of the Good Conduct Medal.

Darius  was a lifetime member of the VFW, American Legion and the Moose Club.  In his retirement he worked as a civilian at Fort Hood for Mantech.

His wife, Chung-za, passed away on August 20, 2004.

Funeral services were held July 16 at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Chapel in Copperas Cove, Texas.  On hand were Patriot Guard Riders who formed a line of American flags at the entrance to welcome the arriving family and friends.

Thirty-some motorcycles, including the Patriot Guard Riders and American Legion Riders, lead the funeral procession to the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Killeen.  As the precession arrived, it was greeted by fifty American flags blowing in the hot Texas summer wind. 

The flag draped casket was moved from the hearse into the committal shelter by the United States Army Honor Guard, and the Patriot Guard Riders formed a line of American flags along two sides of the shelter as final prayers were said.

Full military honors were then rendered by the Honor Guard.   A rifle detail fired three volleys of fire, representing Duty, Honor and Country.   The Army bugler played taps, the flag covering the casket was folded into the traditional triangle, and then presented to the family on behalf of the United States Army and a grateful nation.

Darius Cecil was then laid to rest on the gently slope of the cemetery overlooking the Texas hill country, as the American flag flew at half-staff at the top of the hill.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter and son-in-law, a grandson, a sister and numerous nieces, nephews and other dear family and friends.

He has asked that memorials in his memory be made to the Lou Gehrig’s Research Center.  www.lougehrig.com/about/als_donations.htm.

My Uncle, I loved you so much!
You were not like anyone I’ve ever known
You had a personality and style that was
Unique.  I thank God for those special times
We had thru the years and for our special time
We spent together not so very long ago.
Knowing you was a privilege, being your
Niece was the best!!  May you Rest In Peace
Uncle Darius!!!!

With thanks to Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home for biographical information.