Roll Call Tribute

Ira R. Abbott, III, Col. USAF (Ret)

February 24, 1946 - April 2, 2024 

Ira R. Abbott, III, 78, of New Braunfels, Texas, passed away on April 2, 2024, after a courageous nine-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born on February 24, 1946, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Ira R. Abbott, Jr. and Mary Ely Abbott. In addition to his parents, Ira is predeceased by his older brother Robert Savage.

Ira is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Sharon Abbott, their children Kristin (John) Rosan and Kevin Abbott, grandchildren Stephen Rosan and Erin Rosan, brother William Abbott, sisters-in-law Terrie Savage and Janis (Joe) Martin, nieces Andrea Carter and Shannon (Wade) Callison, nephew Michael Martin, many great nieces and nephews, his faithful caregiver Cheryl (Brad) Mock and family friend Tracy (Kelly) White.

Ira graduated high school in 1964 from Allen Academy Military Preparatory School in Bryan, Texas. In 1968, he obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration from Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas, and in 1969, his Master of Business Administration, from North Texas State University in Denton, Texas.

Ira was commissioned as an Officer in the U.S. Air Force in 1969, and served with distinction until his retirement in 1995, with the rank of Colonel. During his service, Ira was stationed all over the country and overseas. He was honored with many medals and awards, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and a Bronze Star.

Upon retirement from the Air Force, Ira and Sharon moved to New Braunfels, Texas, where Ira began his second career in procurement for private companies contracting with the federal government. They joined Oakwood Baptist Church and became faithful members of the church family. Over the years, Ira led small groups, bible studies, and men’s groups. When he wasn’t on his weekly trip to Walmart, he could be seen meeting believers Tuesday mornings at McDonalds and volunteering at the New Braunfels Food Bank. Those who knew him well were privileged to witness his humble generosity and kindness, always lending his time and resources to help others privately and without any expectation of thanks or recognition. In his free time, Ira loved the outdoors, boating, fishing, and hunting.

Above all, Ira fiercely loved the Lord and his family. Even after he lost the ability to speak, he could still sing hymns and greet friends and family with childlike giggles and embraces. Ira’s love and guidance left an indelible mark on all who knew him. The family will be forever grateful for Tracy White’s trusted guidance and the loving and compassionate care provided by his caregiver, Cheryl Mock, and her family.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on April 15, 2024, at Oakwood Baptist Church, 2154 TX-337 Loop, New Braunfels. A reception and burial will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Oakwood Baptist Church’s building fund in Ira’s honor.