Harry Denton Grizzle Sr.

Harry Denton Grizzle, Sr., age 97, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2026.

Born on November 4, 1928, in McMinnville, Tennessee, Harry was the son of the late Malcolm Powell Grizzle and Gradie Luan King Grizzle. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and relocated to Florida from Korea in 1954. On October 9, 1955, he married the love of his life, Faye Marie Jennings, beginning a devoted marriage that spanned more than 70 years.

Harry was a man of many talents and interests. He had a lifelong passion for model aviation and was a lifetime member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA). His exceptional skill earned him first place worldwide in rudder-only control aircraft and second place worldwide in full-control aircraft through the Air Force. He found great joy in flying radio-controlled model aircraft and sharing his enthusiasm with others.

Harry was also deeply committed to serving his community and his fellow veterans. He was a lifetime member of the Air Force Association and was an active member of the Free and Accepted Masons. He belonged to Alpha Lodge No. 172, where he served as Past Master, and was a member of both the York Rite and the Scottish Rite, attaining the 32nd Degree.

In addition to his beloved wife, Faye, Harry is survived by his children: Harry Denton Grizzle II (Sharon) of Panama City, Florida; Stuart Powell Grizzle (Paula) of Shalimar, Florida; Randal Elliot Grizzle (Nan) of Jackson, Tennessee; and Monica Lynn Ellis (Bill) of Little Rock, Arkansas. He is also survived by his half-sister, Renee Grizzle Little of Loudon, Tennessee; 12 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a source of great pride and joy.

In addition to his parents, Harry was preceded in death by his sisters, Janie M. Martin and Alice Macklin.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Heritage Gardens Funeral Home. The Hurlburt Field Air Force Honor Guard and members of the Masonic fraternity will render final honors. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. A private graveside service will follow at Heritage Gardens Cemetery.

Harry will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, his faithful service to his country, his dedication to his fraternity and community, and his enduring passion for aviation. His legacy of integrity, service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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