Edward (Eddie) Henry Belcher, 91, passed peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, October 6th, 2024 at HPH Hospice House, Spring Hill, Florida. Eddie, a seventh generation Floridian, was born in St. Petersburg to Marvin and Lorraine (Lipphard) Belcher on August 14th, 1933. Raised on a dairy farm, Eddie would deliver milk after school let out in the afternoon. He is a descendant of the Belcher, McMullen, Campbell, Taylor and Wright Pinellas pioneer families.
Eddie raised beef cattle as a hobby farmer while working as a cable splicer for GTE then as an independent contractor. A Korean War Army veteran, Eddie continued serving proudly in the Army Reserves with the 231st Transportation Unit out of St. Petersburg, retiring after more than 20 years of service. Fifty years ago Eddie moved his family to Hudson to live on 30 acres with his cows and horses. His greatest joy was having his family around. He married Barbara Wigley on June 7th, 1957, and the two have four children, Susan (Chris) Larson of Umatilla, Florida, William (Donna) Belcher of Hudson, Michael Belcher of Climax, Georgia, and Tina (Ken) Yuhasz of Hudson. In addition to his wife and children, Eddie is survived by his sister Barbara Vest; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; many cousins, nieces and nephews; and his furry buddy George.
The Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell will be his final resting place. A private service is planned. In lieu of flowers the family encourages a donation in his name to HPH Hospice House, 12260 Cortez Blvd, Brooksville, FL 34613
Leslie Black Hibbs
October 12, 2024, 8:00 pm
He had a warm smile to welcome me into his home and a wicked sense of humor. That laugh just lights up a room. The first time we met, he welcomed me like another daughter; the last time we met he was excited to hear the news and chime in. Mr. Belcher is a big presence who was always willing to get any of us kids (stupid enough) who got stuck in the muck off Denton Avenue out of the mess of our making with his tractor and a smile. My love to him and his family. Knowing that my dad died in 2019, I know that it doesn’t matter how old we are, losing Dad is heartbreaking, but there is solace in knowing – well, sir, a life well lived. And for Mr. Belcher – thanks for the laughs.
Cliff MacBroom
October 12, 2024, 9:45 pm
I am one of the many cousins. Our generation had 13, Eddie being the oldest. Eddie would have been 16 when I was born but always had time for his younger cousins. I remember when he left for Korea he took the time to come by our house and say goodbye in his dress uniform on his way to the airport. Eddie you will be missed.