John Raymond Elliott, Bronze Star recipient

John Raymond Elliott, 71, passed away peacefully Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at the Delaware Veterans Home in Milford, where he resided for the past 12 years. John was born Aug. 12, 1950, and was raised and lived in Lewes all his life.

He was the son of the late Jacqueline Dougherty Podrouzek and Raymond M. Elliott.  John was a 1968 graduate of Lewes High School and soon after enlisted in the U.S. Army.  After basic training, he served in Vietnam in 1970-71 as a helicopter door gunner.  He received numerous medals for service and bravery including two Bronze Stars.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Lou and Dolores Ianire.  He is survived by his wife of 47 years, JoAnn; son, John “Jay” Elliott (Charity) of Lewes; and two grandchildren, Ryleigh and Austin.  John was so proud to follow their successful baseball and softball careers as he always loved and played the sport himself.  He is also survived by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Carol and Ron Garner, and Laurie and Vince Purdy; a sister, Susan Elliott; and many nieces and nephews from Lewes and the surrounding areas.

A memorial service and burial with military honors will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Feb. 14, at the Delaware Veterans Cemetery in Millsboro.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of John can be made to Home of the Brave, 6632 Sharps Rd., Milford, DE 19963.

The Elliott family wishes to thank and will always be grateful to the staff at the Delaware Veterans Home for their loving and compassionate care.

Online condolences can be left by visiting the website, melsonfuneralservices.com.