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Bring's Broadway Chapel

Colonel Raleigh Earl Stroud

May 14th, 1933 - January 1st, 2025

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Obituary of Colonel Raleigh Earl Stroud

Colonel Raleigh Earl Stroud, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, distinguished Air Force veteran, and avid horseman, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona. He was born on May 14, 1933, in West Point, Mississippi, to Elmer and Grace Stroud.

Raleigh, affectionately known as Earl, grew up in Jackson, Missouri, and graduated from Jackson High School. Shortly after, he married the love of his life, Betty J. Stroud, beginning 60 wonderful years together as a devoted military family.

Earl served with honor in the United States Air Force for 29 years, a career marked by dedication, achievement, and exemplary service. Starting as an enlisted airman, he earned a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant after completing Officer Candidate School. Rising through the ranks, he retired as a Colonel. His career highlights include excelling at the Russian Language School, completing the Missile Electronics and Launch Officer Course, and attending both the Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College.

Notably, Colonel Stroud, during his earlier years in the Air Force, contributed to the Apollo program, serving on the Launch and Recovery teams during the historic Apollo missions, including Apollo 11. In his later years of service, he served as the Wing Deputy Commander of Operations for the 351st Missile Wing. He was highly decorated, earning numerous commendations such as the Air Force Legion of Merit, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal.

Beyond his remarkable military career, Earl had a lifelong passion for horses. As an avid horseman, he bred and raised champion Arabian show horses and was affectionately known in the horse world as "The Colonel." He was an active member of the Tucson Saddle Club and rode hundreds of miles across Arizona's mountains and trails, sharing his love of the outdoors and equestrian life with others.

After retiring from the Air Force, Raleigh (Earl) also applied his leadership skills to entrepreneurship, owning and operating Ziebart Tidy Car in Tucson for more than a decade.

Colonel Stroud was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Betty. He is survived by his four children, Karen Miller of Tucson, AZ; Sue (Jeff) Stovall of Collierville, TN; Libby (Jason) Wilson of Bixby, OK; and Greg (Rhondi) Stroud of Windsor, CA. He also leaves behind eight grandsons, three granddaughters, and fourteen great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his legacy of love and dedication.

A private family service will be held on February 10, 2025, at the Southern Arizona Veterans Cemetery in Sierra Vista, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Traditions Health Hospice, 4732 N. Oracle Road, Suite 115, Tucson, AZ 85705, by check or money order.

Arrangements are under the care of Bring’s Broadway Chapel, Tucson, AZ.

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Bring's Broadway Chapel

Bring's Broadway Chapel

Since 1928, Bring's Broadway Chapel has proudly served the diverse needs of families in Tucson and beyond. Our full-service funeral home, recently renovated to provide the latest amenities, offers many options and customizations to ensure a personalized farewell for your loved one. We provide a Tahara room for ritual washing and spaces for incense burning, fostering an environment that respects diverse customs. Bring's specializes in crafting meaningful memorials and life celebrations, tailoring each service to reflect the unique journey of your loved one, including our Veterans....

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(520) 355-3872

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