Exodus Decker

He was born in Anneta, Kentucky on September 25,1928 to Senate and Tula Belle Decker and was blessed with sisters: Beulah, Geneva, Zelma and MaryJane. He is predeceased by his wife, Gerry, a son, Thomas, infant daughters Mary and Elizabeth, and his beloved grandson, Matthew Decker. He was a cherished father to Ron, Joan DeVault, Rick, Karen Gatti (David) and Sharon Sweitzer (Stan) and an awesome Papaw to eleven grandchildren, their spouses, eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

His incredible name was a conversation starter with everyone he met throughout his life. Exodus retired from Ford Motor Company after 25 years as a proud UAW member. He enjoyed spending summers fishing and boating at his cabin on Rough River, where many of his grandchildren spent time and have fond memories of hanging out with Papaw. He was the luckiest person to ever walk through a casino door and play the slots. He won huge jackpots multiple times over the years and it became a family ritual to take him to one of the local casinos. After losing all their money, they would gather around his machine and wait for the inevitable bells and sirens to go off while he asked “How much did I win?” He was the world’s best Papaw and Great Papaw. He attended numerous sporting events and school functions because if it was important to a grandchild, it was important to him. His grandchildren were by his side to see him through to the end, returning the love and support he had shown them throughout their lives.

Exodus had a great sense of humor and would have been voted “most popular” at his assisted living facility, if they actually voted on that sort of thing. He had a smile for everyone and made friends everywhere he went. His health suffered a major setback after a debilitating fall but he never lost his optimism and his fierce determination to get back on his feet and back to his friends. He fought to the very end and will be missed by so many.

A visitation for Exodus will be Thursday, April 4, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services – Hardy Chapel, 10907 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40272. His funeral will be Friday, April 5, 2024 at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Bethany cemetery.