Juanita Azbell

Since my father's passing, I've been on total disability, and it's been a long journey for my family and me. My father, Gary Lee Azbell, served over three years in the US Navy at sea as a machinist, dedicating himself to his country with pride and skill. Despite his service, he has been gone for 27 years without any recognition on his gravesite to honor his commitment and sacrifice. This has weighed heavily on my heart, as I know how much his service meant to him and to all of us who loved him. Gary was not only a proud veteran but also a passionate woodcrafter who found joy in creating and sharing his work with others. One of his wishes was to be remembered with a celebration—enjoying ice cream, socializing, and bringing people together to honor his life and the things he loved. My family and I want to fulfill this wish and give him the recognition he truly deserves. The funds raised will go toward placing a proper marker on his gravesite, organizing a memorial celebration, and honoring his legacy as both a Navy veteran and a beloved father. If we are able to raise enough, we hope to do all of these things to ensure Gary's memory is cherished and his service is never forgotten. Thank you so much for your support—it truly means the world to me.

My father, Gary Azbell, was laid to rest in May of 1999 by his late wife Annie Mae Collins Azbell. Sadly, the Naval foot stone that would recognize his service was never placed on his grave at Floral Hills Memory Gardens. As his daughter, I have carried this unfinished tribute in my heart for many years, and I am determined to see it through. Gary served as a mechanist in the Navy on the USS ROMULUS [22] at sea during the Korean War, and his dedication to his country and family deserves to be honored. After losing my father, I struggled deeply and began having breakdowns in 2000. Was diagnosed as switch frantic. I've had a begiegn brain tumor removed, later diagnosed with laryngenial cancer. It has taken me a long time to find the strength to take this step, and I want to say, 'Sorry, Dad, it has taken me this long.' With tears and love, from your woodcarver's daughter, Nita Jo. The funds raised will go directly toward purchasing and installing the Naval foot stone and Korean flag holder for my father's grave. This tribute will finally give him the recognition he deserves for his service, and bring peace and closure to our family. If more is raised, we will honor his wish for the family to have ice cream together in his memory. Any additional contributions will be used as directed by supporters in the comments, and I will personally ensure your wishes are honored. Any and all support you can give means the world to me and our families as we honor my father's service. Who knows your name might show up in a later book of mine about my life. I'll keep it clean until I write the romance novel. With that all being said if enough would be donated to this much needed cause, it will probably go towards copy paper. Thank you all in advance. Hugs.