In Memory of SGT Victor Earl Durkee, US Army
July 28, 1996 – April 12, 2024
Iraq and Afghanistan
82nd Airborne
SERGEANT VICTOR EARL DURKEE, born July 28, 1996 in Memphis, Tennessee, courageously confronted a lengthy internal struggle before departing from this world by his own hand on April 12, 2024. Victor proudly served our country in the United States Army, embodying the values of honor and sacrifice.
He is survived by his beloved fiancé, Lacey Davidson, who stood by him with unwavering love and support. Victor will be deeply missed by his devoted parents, his father, Mark, and his mother, Lori, and by his cherished siblings: Josh and Murphy Durkee, Kayla and Joe Stevenson, Elijah Durkee, Jayden Johnson, Sam Durkee, Emalee Johnson, Phillip Easter, Thomas Wasmund and Jamie Estep. He also leaves behind grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends, including his comrades in arms, who shared his journey and understood his sacrifices.
Victor, a man of many talents and diverse interest, brought joy to those around him with his presence and love. He enjoyed a wide range of activities and pursuits, finding fulfillment in each endeavor he undertook. His compassionate nature led him to volunteer at the food bank for the Catholic Church of the Ascension, where he selflessly served his community and made a positive impact on those in need.
Services to celebrate Victor’s life will be held at Collierville Funeral Home on April 27, 2024. Interment will occur on Tuesday, April 30, 2024 at 9:00 am at West Tennessee Veteran’s Cemetery, Memphis, Tennessee.
Victor is my oldest son. He served 4 years active duty with the 82nd Airborne where he completed one tour in Afghanistan and six months in an emergency deployment to Iraq. He entered reserve service after his four years and was studying under the JAG team. Victor ended the battle on the frontline in his head on April 12, 2024. He was 27 years old, just 3 months shy of his 28th birthday of July 28, 1996.
States he called home: Tennessee
Basic Training: Ft. Benning – Georgia
Duty Station: Ft. Bragg – North Carolina
Final Resting Place: West Tennessee Veterans Cemetery