Gerald Allen Sandidge

Gerald Allen Sandidge, of Benton, Louisiana, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025, after a long struggle with heart disease and finally double pneumonia. He was 76 years old.

Gerald was born on November 2, 1948, and lived a life defined by service, education, and love for his family and friends. A proud veteran, he served his country with honor in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice. After being wounded in Vietnam, he came back to Fort Polk as a drill sergeant. As a Christ follower, he faithfully attended Benton Methodist Church in Benton, Louisiana.

After his military service, Gerald earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Northeast Louisiana College in Monroe and eventually earned a Masters Plus Thirty in Educational Leadership. He followed in the footsteps of his parents, dedicating his life to educating young minds. His career as a drill sergeant, teacher, coach, and administrator spanned decades and included time in Ouachita, DeSoto, and Caddo Parishes. He completed his working career at Ed Gear as a teacher, trainer, and consultant. He was known not just for his knowledge, but for his passion. Gerald was a teacher through and through, always eager to inspire and guide others.

Gerald is survived by his wife, Nancy Dillahunty Sandidge; his sons, Allen Sandidge and wife, Becky of Minneola, Florida, and Scott Sandidge of Montgomery, Texas; sister, Deborah Lafitte, and husband, Larry of Shreveport; eight grandchildren, two stepchildren, five step grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

Outside the classroom, Gerald enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, hunting, and days spent on the lake. Whether cruising on the party barge, having long dinners with neighbors on the back porch, or camping, he loved creating lasting memories with family and friends. His warmth, sense of humor, and ability to connect with others will be remembered by all who knew him.

Gerald’s life was a testament to service, strength, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Graveside services will be held Friday, July 18, 2025, at 10:15 a.m. at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Keithville, Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to either Benton Methodist Church, 4615 Palmetto Rd., Benton, LA 71006, or the Wounded Warrior Project, https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org.