08/27/2026
Roy Drinkard, World War II veteran and oldest living Marine passed away at the age of 106. Born on July 12, 1920 in Falkville, Ala. enlisting in the Marine Corps during World War II. After returning from the Pacific, Drinkard operated a funeral home and started car dealerships in Alabama. Exercising his business prowess, Drinkard expanded beyond cars to develop and manage shopping centers, theaters, medical complexes, and even apartments from Ohio to Louisiana.
In 1981, Drinkard was recognized as Kmart’s leading developer. The next year, Kroger recognized him as their leading developer. Drinkard was a proponent of education. He donated land for Cullman County Schools educational facilities and helped raise thousands of dollars for college scholarships.
“Mr. Roy was a proud Marine and an inspiration to all who knew him—devoted to his family, his faith and the preservation of freedom,” said Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr.
