Gerald Wayne Allchin

Master Chief Yeoman Gerald "Jerry" Allchin, U.S. Navy (Retired), went home to be with his Lord and Savior at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of faith, patriotism, and unwavering service. Born in Davenport, Iowa on July 18, 1938, Jerry graduated from Davenport High School in June 1957 and answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Navy on August 27, 1957. He completed recruit training at Great Lakes, Illinois, and then Yeoman "A" School in Bainbridge, Maryland. While in "A" school, Jerry was handed the name and address of a young woman to write to-someone he had never met and who had no idea her name had been given out. That woman was Lois Hazen. On Valentine's Day of 1958, he traveled to Michigan to meet her in person, planning to kiss her once and never see her again. But God had other plans. What started as a single kiss turned into 66 years of laughter, partnership, and devotion. They were married on September 27, 1958, Following their wedding, the couple drove cross-country to Long Beach, California, where Jerry was stationed aboard the USS Plumas County (LST-1083). In 1962, Jerry earned the prestigious title of "Flag Writer," marking the beginning of a distinguished administrative career supporting senior naval leadership. He was promoted to Master Chief Yeoman on February 16, 1976, and later appointed Pacific Fleet Master Chief in July 1987. Throughout his 30-year career, Master Chief Allchin served with distinction across many states and several countries. His numerous decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal, two Joint Service Commendation Medals, the Navy Commendation Medal, and the Navy Achievement Medal with Combat "V." But what meant the most to him wasn't the ribbons on his chest - it was the people. He was a fierce advocate for his sailors, championing family support, educational access, and gender equality in the Navy long before it was widely embraced. Jerry's faith in God shaped every part of his life. He didn't just believe quietly-he lived it boldly, with compassion, humility, and strength. He was the steady rock of his family, a Christ-centered role model to his children and grandchildren, and a faithful servant within his church and community. To the world, he may have seemed an imposing man-firm in voice, proud in posture, and precise in discipline. But to his family, he was tender-hearted. He was "Daddy," "Grandpa," "Papa"-a soft place to land, a warm embrace, a gentle listener. He treasured the simple things: a well-cooked steak, a challenging crossword puzzle, the sound of laughter around the table, and quiet moments with the Lord. He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Lois E. Allchin (nee Hazen), and their four children: Mark Allchin, Jennifer Reyes, Brenda Dillard, and Gary Allchin. He is also lovingly remembered by his seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Master Chief Gerald Allchin will be remembered not only for his outstanding military service, but for his enduring love of family, his deep faith, and the lives he touched through kindness, leadership, and integrity. Fair winds and following seas, Master Chief. "But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." -Isaiah 40:31 In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of the following: Grace Lutheran Women's Missionary League (for "mites" to fund community projects): Grace Lutheran Church LWML, 1111 S. Conyer St., Visalia, CA 93277. Please make checks payable to "Grace Lutheran LWML" with "Mites" in the memo. College of the Sequoias Foundation - Veterans Resource Center (for scholarships and services supporting student veterans): COS Foundation, 915 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia, CA 93277. Make checks payable to "COS Foundation" with "Veterans Resource Center" in the memo. Donate online at www.COS.edu/Foundation or call 559-730-3861. Funeral services will be held 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM Friday, June 20th, 2025 at Grace Lutheran Church, 1111 S Conyer St, Visalia. Graveside services will be held 12:00 PM Friday, June 20th, 2025 at Visalia District Cemetery, 1300 W Goshen Ave, Visalia. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Gerald Wayne Allchin

July 18, 1938 - May 27, 2025