Edward Paul Troy

Edward Paul Troy entered into eternal life Saturday, March 16, 2013 in Houston, Texas. Ed was born in Houston, Texas to Wilhelmina and Felix Troy in June 1, 1920. He is reunited with his loving wife, Billie Jerry, who preceded him after almost 70 years of marriage. He is survived by his daughter, Patti Ann Payne, and son Larry Troy and his wife Charlotte. Before a stroke curtailed his activities nearly 20 years ago, Ed was an avid gardener, cook, and fisherman. He spent his years in the vending machine business before retiring. He was a gracious host with a wicked sense of humor which kept everyone on their toes when he was around. He loved life to the fullest and all those around him.

He was a member of the Greatest Generation as it will later be called, but like most of his fellow members, he didn’t like to talk about it. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps December 13, 1940 at the age of 20. Ed was a tail-gunner flying B-17s based at AF Station 121 in Bassingbourn, England, the 323rd squadron under the 91st Bomb Group. He was shot down and severely wounded in the infamous August 17, 1943 Air Raid on Regensburg and Schweinfurt while on his 25th mission. During the raid to eliminate the ball-bearings plant, 60 out of 291 ships were lost and half of the lost crewmen became POWs including Ed where he was imprisoned in various Nazi hospitals and prison camps for thirteen months before repatriation in late 1944. He was recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with three oak clusters, the Purple Heart, and the POW Medal.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff at the VA Hospital 4D Fantasy Island wing for all the love and care given to our father during the long period he was there. A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 23, 2013 at 10 a.m. in the Chapel of Forest Park The Woodlands Funeral Home with interment at Houston National Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of customary remembrances, and for those desiring, the family request that memorial contributions be directed to the American Red Cross, or to the charity of one’s choice.