Col. Jerry Yates Draper

Col. Jerry Yates Draper

A Career Infantry Soldier -

Col. Jerry Yates Draper (Retired), age 80, of Mechanicsburg, and formerly of many places around the world, passed away at Claremont Nursing and Rehabilitation on Monday, November 23, 2020.  Jerry was born on Thursday, July 11, 1940, in Suffolk, VA to the late Clyde Wallace Draper and Doris (Everett) Draper.  In addition to his parents, Jerry is preceded in death by his two brothers: James Wallace Draper and John Robert Draper.

Jerry’s survivors include his wife, with whom he celebrated 55 years of marriage, Linda Kaye (Mitton) Draper; his two children: Lt. Col. Michael “Mike” Yates Draper and wife, Melinda, of Delaware, OH, Lisa Kaye Draper and partner, Vikki Talanca, of Berwick; his grandson: Max Yates Draper; his two siblings: C. Merritt Draper of Suffolk, VA and Brenda Draper Winstead of Virginia Beach, VA; and several nieces and nephews.

Jerry graduated from Suffolk High School as part of the class of 1958, from East Carolina University in 1962; and Syracuse University in 1970 with his masters degree. After graduating from college, Jerry joined the United States Army, ultimately rising to the rank of colonel.  As a career infantry soldier, he served two tours in Vietnam and held a variety of positions around the world.  He commanded at the company, battalion and brigade level.  He finished his 30 year career as the garrison commander of the Carlisle Barracks.  Jerry was a lifelong athlete, who lettered in football, basketball and baseball during his high school years.  Jerry continued to compete in both softball and golf until the age of 70.

All are welcome to join Jerry’s family for his in-person gathering and viewing on Friday, December 4, 2020, from 9:00 a.m. until time of virtual gathering and viewing via video chat or telephone at 10:00 a.m. and time of service at 10:30 a.m. at Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Celebrant George A. Spangler officiating.  Burial will be private in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville, PA, where military honors will be presented.

Contributions in celebration of Jerry’s life can be made to a dementia or Alzheimers charity of the donor’s choosing.

Jerry’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Jerry’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com

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Virtual Gathering via Video Chat

Family and friends are welcome to join Jerry's family via video chat or telephone on Friday, December 4, 2020, beginning at approximately 10:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.

We use Zoom for internet video chat and telephone conference calling.  There is no charge for you to participate.  Simply click on the link below or dial the telephone number below to be connected to the event.

Join from PC, Mac, iOS or Android: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82179610631? with passcode 3421

Join by telephone:   415-762-9988   or   646-568-7788   and enter meeting number 821 7961 0631 with passcode 3421

By participating in chat you agree to our “Internet Video Chat & Telephone Chat Policies” which can be found at www.Buhrig.com/Privacy-Policy

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