Jeremy Wayne Gothard, 41, of Shelbyville, formerly of Oklahoma, passed away Monday, November 20, 2023 at his residence.
He was born April 4, 1982 in Ardmore, OK. to Gary Gothard and Linda (Carman) Gothard.
Jeremy was a Veteran of the United States Army with the rank of Specialist E-4. He served with the 1st Battalion, 9th Calvary Regiment of the 1st Calvary Division, “Headhunters” Mortar Platoon.
Jeremy took part in over 200 combat missions which included pulling security so the citizens of Iraq could vote for the very first time in history. He also provided security and supplied hundreds of children in the area with school supplies.
His platoon was also the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) for the battalion. “He was a phenomenal soldier and protector of his fellow brother” stated SGT Ryan Robinson.
Jeremy earned the Army Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal and several Army commendation medals. He also earned his Combat Infantryman Badge and 1st Calvary Division Combat Patch.
Jeremy sustained a traumatic brain injury due to an IED they encountered while on a mission in 2004. The severity of his injury wasn’t known at the time of his deployment but it prevented him from continuing his career with the United States Army.
Jeremy comes from a family with military background and he loved his family dearly. He was a firm believer in Jesus and was a patriot through and through. Jeremy also enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Jeremy is survived by his daughters, Serenity, Gracie, and Morgan; his sister, Jennifer Rodriguez; his father, Gary Gothard; his grandparents, Gil and Ann Gothard, and Glenn Carman. Jeremy also leaves behind his service dog, Rosie. She was trained by Jeremy and was the definition of “man’s best friend”.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda Gothard.
A graveside service will be held on May 4th, 2024 in Shay Cemetery. 7212 Shay Rd. Shay, OK. 73439
Funeral directors, Greg Parks, Sheila Parks, Stuart Parks, and Darin Schutt are honored to serve Jeremy’s family.
Online condolences may be shared at www.murphyparks.com.
