John William (JE - Johnny) Eddins, 79 of Max Meadows, VA, formerly of Raleigh, NC, died March 18 in Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was born November 27, 1936 in Wake County, North Carolina. He was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Lena Eddins, a sister, Shirley Griffis and his former wife, Jeanne C. Eddins.
Johnny enlisted in the US NAVY in 1953 and served aboard the USS ORISIKANY. Upon his discharge, he returned to Raleigh and pursued his dream of flying. He joined the North Carolina National Guard, serving for nearly 40 years. During his time with the GUARD, he obtained his pilot's license for both fixed-wing and helicopters, even building his own aircraft (in the basement of his home). He held an AMP license, working on APACHE and BLACK HAWK helicopters for the GUARD.
After his retirement in 1994, Johnny moved to Virginia and married his high school sweetheart. They traveled extensively until health problems prevented making long trips.
He is survived by his wife, Carolyn A. Kleene Eddins, a daughter, Deena Eddins of Warren, MI, two step-daughters, Deborah K. Flinchum (Tom) of Blacksburg, Donna Kleene of Roanoke, one step-son, Dr. J. Wesley Kleene (Lynda) and two step-grandsons, Morgan and Logan Kleene of Richmond. Also remaining are three brothers, Richard (Marie), Jim (Gayle) and Charles (Linda) and one brother-in-law, Wayne Griffis of North Carolina, several nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be held Monday, March 21 at Barnett's Funeral Home in Wytheville from 5:00-7:00 pm. An additional visitation will be held at Montlawn Funeral Home, Raleigh, NC on Tuesday March 22, from 1:00 - 2:30 pm. A graveside service with military honors will be held at 2:30 pm Tuesday at Montlawn Memorial Park, Raleigh, NC.
Flowers will be appreciated or memorials may be made to the LEAD MINES RESCUE SQUAD., Post Office Box 502, Austinville, VA 24312.
Barnett Funeral Home, Wytheville, VA and Montlawn Funeral Home, Raleigh are assisting the family. Online condolences may be sent to the family at: www.highland funeralservice.com or www.montlawn.com