Amelia Gerrald-Tsukuda

US Army Retired Master Sergeant Amelia Gerrald-Tsukuda, a beacon of strength and love, was welcomed home into God’s Kingdom, by her parents and many other family members on August 25, 2024, in Marianna, Florida, at the age of 75. Born on July 27, 1949, to the late Nannette Hendrix and John Gerrald, in New York City, New York, Amelia's life was a tapestry of service, friendship, and unwavering faith.

Amelia's journey began in the bustling streets of New York, where she attended public schools and graduated from Charles Evans Hughes High School in 1965. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Howard University and Long Island University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's degree in communications. Her education paved the way for a diverse and impactful career.

In 1972, Amelia embraced a life of service by joining the Army. Her illustrious military career took her across the globe, from the American Forces Network in Frankfurt, Germany, to various posts within the United States, including Ft Knox, KY, Fort Novosel, AL and West Point, New York. She excelled in multiple roles, from TV production reporter and photographer to army recruiter and air traffic controller. Amelia's dedication to her duties was recognized through numerous awards, including the Army Good Conduct Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.

Amelia's courage shone brightly when she oversaw search and rescue missions during the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. Her commitment to safety earned her installation the title of the safest for FORCE COM for five consecutive years.

Beyond her military achievements, Amelia was a woman of deep faith. She accepted Christ at a young age in New York and continued her spiritual journey at the First Missionary Baptist Church in Dothan, Alabama, after moving here for military training. Her involvement with the church was a testament to her faith-filled life.

Amelia's zest for life was evident in her hobbies and relationships. She was outgoing, a people pleaser, strong-headed, and prissy, with a love for lipstick, scarves, and purses. She was known for her mantra, "my way or the highway," yet her supportive nature was a cornerstone of her personality. Amelia cherished shopping and traveling with her family and her close-knit New York crew, "My Friends and I,” Carol Mack, Henrietta Williams, Marlene, Loraine, Marie McCullough, Pearl Everett, Barbra Stanton, Sylvia McGee, Margaret Sampson, Cathy Leverett, and Janice Rackley.

Amelia's legacy is carried on by her loving family. She is survived by her children, Stephen Luther Tsukuda, Lisa Chiamaka Martinez, Maurice(Myra) Martinez; grandchildren Kinnidi Martinez & Shambria Simmons; her brother, Stephen (Harriet) Hendrix; sister in laws Wanda Rios, Sylvia (Abdul) Muley, Evelyn Colon, Lydia Colon, Margarita Colon, Elsie Colon, Maria Greenblatt; brothers in law: Victor (Linda) Colon, Anthony Johnson; her extended family brother, Harry (Jessica) Campbell Sr.; son: Adolph Gethers, daughters: Brittney (Josh) Andrews, Revonia “Bonnie” Gethers; grandchildren Millie Andrews, Shawndrea (Shaun) Lindsey, Rochelle Gethers, sisters: Lindell Martinez, Ella (Top) Mathis, Edwina Campbell, Linda Robinson, Chrisanna Hawk, Dorthy Aretha Price, Gail (Alfonso) Brown; nieces and nephews: April (Dwight) Smith, Sheronda (Douglas) McCalister, Harry Campbell Jr., Genita (Shetland) James, Jamal (Anitra) McCullough, Ayanna McCullough; and her great-grandchildren, Landon Gethers, Noah Lindsey, and Ava Rose Gethers. She also leaves behind her adored godchildren, Amy Hackett, Rhonda Paris, Dr. Qussay Godbolt, Nasheet Waits, Sharif Waits, Kenyat Godbolt, and Marquis Hackett, along with numerous other family members and friends.

Preceding Amelia in death were her husbands, Calvin Walter Durant and Ken Tsukuda. They, along with the many lives she touched, will forever cherish her memory.

Amelia Gerrald-Tsukuda's story is one of unwavering courage, love, and faith. Her remarkable journey from the streets of New York to the hearts of all who knew her will continue to inspire and guide us. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we celebrate the indelible mark she has left on our lives.

The family would like to thank Dr. Sortino, Carmen Cooper, Social Worker, Dr. Foster, Dr. Rachel Lee, and Dana Lee Frazier of the Wiregrass, CAVAHS and Birmingham VA Health Care Systems, Ozark Health and Rehabilitation Center, Vitas Hospice, Courtyard Health Care in Marianna, and Carla Brown for all the excellent health care services and support during her last ten years of her life.

Family will receive friends at Sunset Memorial Park on Friday, August 30th,2024, from 4-6 pm. Services with military honors and officiated by Rev B.K. Marshall at Sunset Memorial Park Midland City, AL, on August 31, 2024, at 1 pm Interment and Repast at Sunset Memorial Park.