Jerry Ray Bedingfield

March 1, 1940 - February 14, 2016
Colonel (Retired) Jerry Ray Bedingfield, 75, of San Antonio, Texas died on Sunday, February 14, 2016. Jerry, devoted son, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, dedicated brother, uncle, godfather is survived by his wife, Lorraine Panek Bedingfield, his daughters Kelly Bedingfield Robles and Nancy Bedingfield, his son Steven Bedingfield, daughter-in-law, Julie Bedingfield, and grandsons Manuel Robles and Nicolas Robles. He is also survived by his brothers Jimmy Bedingfield, Alan Bedingfield, Joe Bedingfield, and sisters Shirley Bedingfield Forton, Gayle Bedingfield Hall, and Becky Bedingfield, along with many nieces and nephews, and a multitude of people who were mentored by, supported by, and encouraged by him. He is preceded in death by his brothers, Danny Bedingfield and Roger Bedingfield, and his sister, Jeannette Bedingfield Williams.
Jerry was born in Bruce, Mississippi, on March 1, 1940 and grew up near Mobile, Alabama.
Jerry is a Viet Nam veteran who began his career in the United States Air Force in 1961. During his 31 years of service, he received many commendations, including the Legion of Merit/1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal/2 Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Air Medal/9 Oak Leaf Clusters. Jerry began his career as an enlisted man and entered the Aviation Cadet Program, earning his wings in 1961. He served as navigator aboard multiple aircraft during Viet Nam, flying more than 200 combat missions, before transitioning into Electronic Security. He served with distinction in multiple leadership roles and has served as a mentor to many.

After retirement, Jerry worked as a substitute teacher at Locke Hill Elementary School. He was a gifted artist, carpenter, composer, and musician, and he spent many hours crafting beautiful treasures and serenading his family. He was a clever, mischievous wit who read voraciously and loved to travel and delve into the genealogy of his family. He was constantly planning and preparing for his family, both his biological and chosen, and had a knack for picking just the right gift or project.

His generous spirit and the gifts of his wisdom and overwhelmingly unconditional love will be missed. We who have lost this man encourage you to hug your parents.
There will be a funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church followed by a memorial service at 2:45 p.m. at the National Cemetery at Ft. Sam Houston on Monday, February 29.
In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider making a donation in Jerry's honor to one of the following organizations: Special Operations Warrior Foundation (specialops.org), Homes for Our Troops (www.hfotusa.org) or Young Life (www.younglife.org).