George O. Herring Jr.

GEORGE ODIS HERRING JR. was born February 10, 1936 at 12:01 A.M. in Woodland, AL of Randolph County. He was the eldest of six children born to loving and proud parents, Ottis and Drewcilla Herring. After World War II, the Herring family moved to Chattanooga, TN. He received his formal education in Woodland and Chattanooga.

On July 8, 1953, George enlisted into the United States Marine Corps. On September 29, 1953, he completed his boot camp training at Paris Island, SC. George rushed home to the love of his life, Doris Harris, to be united in Holy Matrimony. They had four loving, obedient children; George III, Geraldine, Mark and Christine. In 1964, George relocated his family to San Diego, CA, where he served at Camp Pendleton and MCRD.

During his distinguished military career, George served two tours in Vietnam; received the Bronze Star with Combat V & 5 Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, which is Vietnam country’s highest award. He was also selected for Master Sgt. status in 1968. He was Honorable Discharged October 7, 1976.

In 1977, George joined The Montford Point Marine Association, Chapter 12. During his tenure he held numerous positions; Special Project Officer and was elected Vice President, President and Chaplain. He received various meritorious honors and national awards for outstanding leadership and support. George also supported the American Legion’s programs and food distributions.

His unwavering commitments were acknowledged by Congress of the United States House of Representatives in recognition of his community leadership and participation in the Imperial Avenue Street Fair against crime and drugs in our neighborhoods. He served as a member of the Business Owners Association; received the “Man of the Year MPMA Inc. National Award; listed in the Hall of Fame and Cambridge Who’s Who Registry of Executive and Professionals; received the Department of Veteran’s Affairs Commendation given by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and numerous other awards. George also owned and operated his own business while obtaining two AA Degrees. These are just a few of his extraordinary accomplishments. One can truly say, George lived his eighty-one years to the fullest.

Of the many accomplishments and titles George held in life, none could be compared to his most precious one, and that was being “Dad” and “Grand Dad”. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Doris, and his eldest son, George O. Herring III.

On Friday, February 2, 2018, 1st SGT George O. Herring Jr. was called from earthly labor to eternal rest. He is survived by his children: Geraldine, Mark and Christine; significant other, Lucy Graham; his sister, Cemora Battle; brother, Ray Herring; grand-children, Maurice, Ronnelle, Chanel, Breona, Tonique and Marcus; great-grandchildren, Janelle, Canisius, Kylie, Solei, Selene, Kash, Mahjai and Jiraiya; nieces, nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

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