Robert W. Eckel Jr. 79, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at Southeast Medical Center.

Graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Meadowlawn Cemetery, with Rev. Cliff Quincey officiating. Searcy Funeral Home and Crematory is directing the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Wounded Warriors or Tunnels to Towers.

Robert (Retired Army Ranger) devoted the last 20 years of his life to a unique passion—creating and customizing Disney Cars through his remarkable metal and woodworking talents. With patience, creativity, and an eye for detail, he built what became known as the world’s largest unopened collection of Disney Cars. His handcrafted pieces were admired by collectors everywhere, and he proudly customized and sold them to people across the globe. A true Jack of all Trades.

Beyond his craft, Robert found his greatest joy in working alongside and spending time with his son. Those moments together meant the most to him and were a source of great pride and happiness throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his wife Yang Sun Eckel.

Survived by his son, Robert Eckel III, Dothan, AL.