Eddie Devine, Jr.

Eddie Devine, Jr., the third of twelve children born to sharecroppers, Eddie Devine, Sr. and Irene Singleton Devine, was born on October 18, 1946 in Bolton, MS. He was a unique blessing in the family having a quiet, unassuming and humble spirit. The normal farm chores, plowing, picking cotton, plucking corn, harvesting vegetables, chopping fire wood and the like were all dutifully taken in stride and without complaints.

Junior, as he was known by family and friends, not only existed in a family of faith, he himself accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior July 1958, during the annual revival under Evangelist, R. G. Summers. He was subsequently baptized August 1958 by the renowned pastor/preacher, Reverend Silas Smith. He not only carried out the Christian virtues, he demonstrated the Christian values of faith, love and generosity toward his fellowman throughout his lifetime.

Eddie Junior’s education was obtained from the Hinds County and Madison County School Systems, respectfully. Initially, he attended Johnsonline School, among others, and graduated from East Flora High, May 1965.

After graduation he was employed with CM and I Industries in Jackson, MS. After one year he was drafted into the United States Army, June 1, 1966. He was initially stationed at Fort Benning, GA. Other tours of duty were Korea, Germany, Texas and Washington.

He loved and married Mi Cha of South Korea on October 10, 1968. Their infant son, Marvin, died shortly after birth. His beloved wife, also known as Judy, died on October 4, 2008.

For twenty years, this soldier served his country in the United States Army with distinction, wearing the uniform with pride and representing the best of what it means to be a soldier. He served as an Army chef, but more than that, he was a provider of comfort through food. His meals were not only nourishment, they were a reminder of home, of care and of humanity. He not only fed the body, he fed the soul. His daily chef duties were no doubt reminders of the delicious meals provided by his grandparents, Thomas (Dude) and Estella Singleton. Anyone in the community was made welcome at their table at meal times. Junior carried himself with the quiet humility of a man who recognized that honor is found in doing your work well, even when no one is watching. Our soldier retired June 1, 1986 after 20 years of honorable service as Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) at Fort Lewis Washington.

Eddie Devine, Jr. transitioned to his heavenly home, Tuesday, August 12, 2025. This transition was exactly thirty-five years to the date of his grandmother Estella’s death.

This humble loving soul has not only gained milk and honey in fellowship with his Savior. As chef he has more than likely introduced new food items to the normal menu, RED ROSE SAUSAGES and BLACKBURN SYRUP.

Joining Eddie Junior in that great caravan of those gone before include his parents, Eddie Devine, Sr. and Irene Devine; infant son, Marvin; brother, Earnest; sister, Doretha; nieces, Yvette and Stephanie and nephew, Andrew, Jr.

Eddie Devine, Jr. leaves the legacy of love and respect of his family and others who knew him: his sons, Calvin and Walter; daughters, Teresa and Florence Marie, all of Tacoma, WA; grandsons, Darren (aka Slick) and wife Tiffany, Jarrod, Jason, and Marcel; one great grandson, Darren (Slick, Jr.). Other beloved family members honoring his life include: brothers, Austin Devine, Haughton, LA and Rev. Silas (Everlean) Devine, Jackson, MS; seven sisters: Cloella (Melvin) Thompson, Chicago, IL; Dr. Lou Helen Sanders, Jackson, MS; Eula Gibson, Jackson, MS; Shirley (Andrew, Sr.) Lee, Jackson, MS; Joyce Louise Harper, Jackson, MS; Linda Devine, Jackson, MS; and Pastor Katie (Robert) Chandler, Clinton, MS. Our deceased also leaves a beloved sister/cousin, Elnora Hughes, Pacoima, CA and her sister, Bernice Love, Chicago, IL. He leaves two sisters-in-law, Minnie Devine, Detroit, MI and Delborah Devine, Bossier City, LA; also nieces and nephews, cousins, many former church members, classmates and friends.

REST WELL SOLDIER. YOUR DUTY IS DONE.