death of DL F/O Jeffrey Cantrell, age 61
death flwnwst
~ IN MEMORY ~
USAF veteran, DL F/O Jeffrey Cantrell
April 29, 1964 – August 4, 2025
As noted in the November-December ALPA Air Line Pilot magazine, the passing of Delta Air Lines pilot F/O Jeffrey Cantrell……….
Jeffrey Cantrell proudly served our United States Military for 30 years, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Air Force………………….
Jeffrey “Jeff” Cantrell joined Delta Air Lines 03-23-2000 and was based Atlanta. Per whitepages listing, Jeff had most recently resided in Texas : 1217 4th St, Argyle, TX 76226.
PCN memorial site https://pcnflightwest.blogspot.com/2025/12/dl-fo-jeffrey-cantrell.html
Private services were held in the Dallas area.
Obituary information is available online at
https://neptunesociety.com/obituaries/north-richland-hills-tx/jeffrey-cantrell-12491133
It is with deep respect and heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Jeffrey Cantrell. Jeff passed away peacefully at his home on August 4, 2025, at the age of 61. At the time of his death, he was a resident of Argyle, Texas. Jeff was a devoted friend, twin brother, husband and father. He was predeceased by his parents, Mr. & Mrs. Bill Cantrell, and survived by his twin sister, Jennifer Cantrell-Walland. He is also survived by his 3 treasures of life, his children: Henry Cantrell and twins Emma and James Cantrell.
He found great joy in spending time with his family, traveling, and supporting his children, specifically if the event was outdoors to enjoy a baseball game, fishing with the kids, watching football games and even playing cards with his high school buddies. Jeff was always respectful and kind to others, while being a magnet to laughter and conversation as he entered any room.
Jeff was born in Sandusky, Ohio on April 29, 1964. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong sense of passion for aviation, which would shape his career. During his childhood years, we’d opt for cartoons on Saturday morning, but the channel seemed to (always) flip to M.A.S.H, McHale’s Navy sitcom or the Jetsons … anything with an “in flight theme” to include planes, fighter pilots, aeronautical or aircraft displays and learnings. He made an unwavering statement from his early days that “he was going to fly”.
He graduated from Margaretta High School, Castalia, Ohio, and quickly pursued his first military step after graduation. Progressing into the U.S. Army with many posts, to include MP, and piloting varied Helicopter units. His education and training continued during his days at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida and Arizona. His passion was elevated as he made the pivot to our U.S. Air Force and proudly flew fighter jets, war drones and larger cargo planes, to include diverse missions and teachings.
Jeffrey Cantrell proudly served our United States Military for 30 years, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Air Force. Throughout his distinguished career, he held various command and staff positions, leading with integrity, courage, and compassion. He was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations, in recognition of his exceptional service. Upon retiring from active duty, Jeff continued to serve his last few years as a Delta Airlines pilot, before his final retirement.
He built many amazing friendships and connections, still noted today and evidenced by the sincere outreach after his death. He leaves behind a legacy of honor, dedication, and service to his country, family, and community.
Private services have been defined by family and Jeff’s placement is among his comrades and those respected military peers while resting at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Military Cemetery located in Dallas, Texas. Please continue his memory as you might celebrate his life with storytelling moments and most especially recognizing our upcoming Veterans Day, and the days forward. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the charity of your choice in his honor. He will be deeply missed and loved yet never forgotten. May he rest in peace.