Obituaries

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Full Obituaries

Alfredo Mariscal

Alfredo Mariscal, 50, passed away on Saturday, February 20, 2021.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 27, at Peninsula Funeral Home. Guests are invited to participate in the service through live streaming (www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video). Interment will follow the service at Peninsula Memorial Park. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Elizabeth Bain O’Donnell

On February 17, 2021 Elizabeth Bain O’Donnell, 98, peacefully slipped into eternal rest. She was born in Petersburg, Virginia on July 17, 1922 to Charles Leonard Bain and Bess Chick Bain. She was preceded by her “Sugar Bear” James Edward O’Donnell, her husband of 67 years.

Liz is survived by her daughter, Bonnie O’Donnell Mershon; sister, Libby Bain; dear friend, Anona Hogwood; and her dear friends of 40 years, Dave and Karla Hause.

Liz retired from the Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company after 32 years. In her youth, Liz studied and played the Golden Harp for 10 years under Hazel Moses, Richmond Conservatory. She played for many different functions, was one of the youngest at that time to play the Angel Harp, and also played on broadcasts from WRVA radio in Richmond, Virginia. Liz graduated from Spotswood Business School.

In retirement, Liz played golf with the Cardinal Clippers Women’s Golf Association of Deer Run in Newport News and was thrilled when they invited her (a high handicapper, ha ha!!!) to become an Honorary member of their organization.

Liz was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. She fondly remembers meeting for breakfast with the OLOMC Hardee Girls after Mass on Sundays at Hardee’s.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Souther and his staff, and the staff of The Huntington at the Newport Assisted Living for the many years of care given to her. She will be sorely missed by all that knew her.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 2, 2021 the Bain’s gravesite in Saint Joseph Roman Catholic Cemetery in Petersburg, Virginia. Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Ruth “Marie” Morris

Ruth “Marie” Morris, 82, passed away on Friday, February 19, 2021.  She was a native of Bertie County, NC, and had been a resident of Newport News for over 55 years.  Marie was an Administrative Tech for the City of Newport News, a Pharmacy Tech for People’s Drug Store, and a school bus driver.  She attended and was a member of Morrison Methodist Church.

Marie loved gardening, garage sales, thrift stores, and spending time with her family.  She was a strong woman who fought through her illnesses to stay strong for her family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Lee Morris, Sr., parents, William and Ruth Jackson, sister, Jerri Brown, and brother, Bill Jackson.  Marie is survived by two daughters, Lisa Morris and Teresa Portlock (Curtis), two sons, Bobby Lee Morris, Jr. and Hobert “Hobie” Morris; four grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and one on the way; sister, Frances Farless; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the Consulate Healthcare of Windsor employees for their loving care of Marie for the last four years.

Respects may be given to Marie and the family on Tuesday, February 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.  Facial masks and social distancing will be required. Burial will take place at Peninsula Memorial Park at a later date.

Brenda Haight Simpson

Brenda Haight Simpson, 76, passed away unexpectedly on February 16, 2021, at Riverside Hospital with her family by her side. She was a native and lifelong resident of Poquoson. Brenda graduated from Poquoson High School as valedictorian and she scored perfectly on her scholastic aptitude test. She was a proud member of Mensa – The High IQ Society. Brenda began her career at NASA in 1962 as a mathematician tasked with the complex calculations of space-flight trajectories. Six years later in 1968, she left NASA to be a stay-at-home mom.

She worked at The Crabcake House for the late Alice Eller and quickly found a second family. The dearest of friendships was formed and she cherished those memories. Eventually, she returned to NASA as an IT Specialist and contributed 31 years before retiring.
Brenda was a lifelong member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Poquoson and for years, assisted Harriet Forrest Mary Milton Conrad, and Gloria West in the children’s music ministry with her unique style of piano accompaniment. Many children lovingly participated over the years and Miss Brenda’s dance songs were always a hit. She also taught Sunday school, hosted vacation Bible school, and was a brownie troop leader for her two daughters.

In February 1963, she married and they had three children. She never missed a single game, match, or event of her children’s busy lives. For 15 years, most weekends mom and daughters spent traveling to a baton contest, spending overnight in hotels, and having one on one time. Selfless to a fault, she always sacrificed herself and everything she had for others, especially her grandchildren, and she wouldn’t have had it any other way. She loved being a Mom, and she especially loved being Grannniebren. Brenda loved Perry Mason episodes, detective TV shows, dancing, and her church.
Our selfless matriarch was taken from us too soon and our hearts are left aching with an emptiness no other will ever fill. The unconditional love, extraordinary care, unending patience, and nurturing compassion from Loie Diggs and Kym Diggs Rohrer have been heavenly Godsends. Truly words fail our love and appreciation for what you meant to mother and what you will always mean to us.  Special appreciation to Susan Pendergrass and Jane Lender for countless home-cooked meals, the best childhood memories and most special friendships of unconditional love and to Penny Holloway for emotional support during times of grief and loss.  Dr. Charles Ginsburgh — Thank You for safely managing Mother’s pain and for your unending mercy. Thank you, Ned Barone, for round-the-clock medical expertise, physician collaboration, and legal representation.

Brenda was preceded in rest by her father, Charles Bradley Haight, mother, Roxie, Watkins Haight, daughter Kelly Simpson Silver, son, Troy Simpson, and childhood friend Marion Blieberger. She is survived by her former husband, Henry W Simpson, and by her daughter, Korry Simpson Barone (Ned) of Jamestown, NY; four grandchildren: Kristi Allen, Renee Brown, Emily Daggett, and Amanda Harris; 9 great-grandchildren: Taylor Arrington, Kali Bartron, Sophie, Sadie, and Savannah Brown, Stella and Alivia Daggett, and Teagan and Wyatt Harris; and sisters, Pat Firman & Vicki Diggs.

A COVID-safe Celebration of Life will take place this spring. Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Ovella Jones Rilee Lucy

Ovella Jones Rilee Lucy of Newport News passed away peacefully on February 18, 2021, at the age of 100. She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Ruby Jones; her first husband, Woodrow Rilee; her second husband, Thurman Lucy; one sister and three brothers.
She is survived by one brother, Shirley Jones; four children, Jenny Booth, Betty Hicks, Kathy Rilee (Wayne Wise), and Bill Lucy (Lori); 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-grandchildren.

She was a founding member of Parkview United Methodist Church, where she remained a faithful member and was the last living original member.

She loved doing all kinds of crafts, especially knit and crochet, and many friends and relatives cherish her creations.  She felt her greatest accomplishment was her family, for whom she was a pillar of strength and continues to be a source of inspiration.

A graveside service will be held Tuesday, February 23 at 11:00 am, at Peninsula Memorial Park.  Masks and social distancing are required.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters or your local food bank.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Barbara Jean Crowder

Barbara Jean Crowder, 76, passed away on Saturday, February 13, 2021.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 19, 2021 at Peninsula Memorial Park, with Chaplain Timothy Langston officiating. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Tony Franklin Vecchio

Tony Franklin Vecchio, Sr., 86, passed away on February 11, 2021. He was a native of Shinnston, WV and a resident of Hampton for 51 years. Tony began his military career in the U.S. Navy and completed his service in the U.S. Air Force, serving in both the Korean and Vietnam conflicts. He later retired from Newport News Shipbuilding as a security guard after 23 years. He was of the Christian faith.

Tony was preceded in death by twin daughters, Niwana and Wanda Vecchio; parents, Tony and Opal Vecchio; brothers, Junior, Jimmy and Bill; and sisters, Betty and Naomi. He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Dorothy K. Vecchio of Hampton; sons, Tony F. Vecchio, Jr. and Mark A. Vecchio; daughters, Connie Smith and Niwana Vecchio Jenkins; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; brother, Darrell Morris; sister, Sadie Dellinger; and several nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 19, 2021 at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., in Newport News. Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Gloria P. Bruce

Gloria P. Bruce, 78, passed away on February 14, 2021. She was a native of Burkeville, VA, and had been a peninsula resident for nearly 60 years.

Gloria is survived by her son, Rick Daulton of Lancaster, KY; brother, G.W. Pace, Jr. and his wife, Charlene of Crewe, VA; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, George W. Pace, Sr. and Edith Pace. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, Forrest F. Bruce. They shared many happy years together, travelling and enjoying NASCAR races and special times spent with family.

Gloria was a very social person and had many friends. She loved going to dinner with friends, dancing with local dance clubs, and shopping. She held several administrative assistance positions over the years, most recently, with Landmark Appraisals, where she retired. Gloria was a former member of Liberty Baptist Church and attended Northside Christian Church.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 18, 2021 at Peninsula Memorial Park. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the American Cancer Society, in memory of Gloria.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Donald L. Moody

Donald L. Moody, 81, passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2021.  He was a native of Johnson City, TN and had been a resident of Hampton, VA for 70 years.  Donald served in the United States Air Force.  After his service, he had a lengthy career as an automotive mechanic before going into business for himself and owned and operated Moody’s Body Supply for 36 years.   Donald was a member of Christ United Methodist Church, especially loved Chevy Classic Cars 1955-57, and in his spare time, was a country line dance teacher.  He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Cora Oakes.  Donald is survived by his wife of 60 years, Pam Moody; daughter, Terry Morris; son, Tony Moody (Kerry); four grandchildren, Aaron Jackson, Stephanie Cuevas (Luis), Tiffany Letchworth (Matthew) and Raychel Morris; seven great-grandchildren, Hayden Williams, Jadiel Cuevas, Elijah Cuevas, Alayna Cuevas, Jayson Cuevas, Kamryn Jackson, Lillyana Jackson; sister, Kathleen Jones; and niece, Jennifer Kellner and family.

The family will receive friends on Friday, February 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.  A funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Christ United Methodist Church.  Burial will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens.  Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Elizabeth (Betty) Taylor Peffer

Elizabeth “Betsy” Ann Chalmers

Elizabeth “Betsy” Ann  Chalmers, 57, passed away suddenly on Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021. She was a devoted employee of Newport News Shipbuilding for 35 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph H. Chalmers and Peggy Fugate Chalmers, and her brother, Joseph H. “Jody” Chalmers, Jr. She is survived by her sister, Robin Chalmers Vinson, and husband, Stanley Vinson; and her nephews Tom Vinson and Robert Vinson.

A private burial will be held at Peninsula Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to The Cat Corner, Inc., 85 Fulton Street, Hampton, VA 23663. Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Jerry Wayne Malpass

Jerry Wayne Malpass, 68, of Newport News, left his family and friends much too soon and entered Heaven’s gates on January 30, 2021. Born June 15, 1952, in Wilmington, NC, Jerry grew up in and around Hampton and Newport News. Before enlisting in the Army in 1970, he attended Hampton High School. He served a tour in Vietnam and left the Army as a Specialist in 1977 from Ft. Eustis. Jerry then spent the next 12 years sailing the world with Exxon Shipping Company before leaving in 1989. He worked for a period in environmental services before retiring from the Virginia Department of Transportation in 2010.

An avid fan of NASCAR and the Washington Football Team, he was most known for his sense of humor and contagious laughter. Often the target of jokes, he took great pleasure in being able to laugh at himself and light up a crowd.

Preceding him in death are his parents Joyce Branch Malpass and George “Fred” Malpass, Sr. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Lisa Frazier Malpass, and their only son, Carter-Gage Malpass; older brother, George “Freddie” Malpass, Jr. (Sherry); a younger brother, David Lee Malpass (Rita); sister, Elaine Malpass Prout (Tracy); sister-in-law, Karen Sue Frazier; countless nieces and nephews; and an abundance of life-long friends.

A Graveside Celebration of Life, with military honors, will be held on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk. Facial masks and social distancing will be required.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made in his honor to Disabled American Veterans or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Joseph Harris Horrell

Joseph Harris Horrell, Sr. 85, passed away on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at Riverside Hospital.  He was a member of Newmarket Baptist Church, an avid golfer working at Hampton Golf Course in Phoebus, and loved NASCAR racing.  Joe was a member of Monitor Masonic Lodge #197 AF& AM.

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Glenda; two sons, Joey and Kent; and four sisters and two brothers in North Carolina.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, February 8, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Peninsula Memorial Park.
Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA or Adopt a Pet.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Carter Braxton Ficklen

On February 1, 2021, Carter Braxton Ficklen passed away peacefully at home.

Carter was born on July 30, 1942, growing up in Hilton Village. He earned Eagle Scout honors and graduated from Warwick High School in 1960. In 1964, Carter married Carol Lipscomb, raising three children, Margaret Anne (Tom), Frances (John), and Carter III (Jennifer).

Carter and Carol celebrated their 57th anniversary earlier this year, sharing a lifetime of love with their friends and family. During their retirement, they traveled extensively with friends, continued their love of spending time in the Outer Banks, and enjoyed time with their five grandchildren, Thomas, William, Skylar, Braxton, and Elizabeth.

He graduated with honors from CNU and received his MBA from William and Mary. Carter began his career in health physics at Newport News Shipbuilding and in 1977, became the first radiation safety officer at NASA Langley Research Center. In 1989, he joined Jefferson Lab, serving in a number of leadership roles in environmental health and safety, until his retirement in 2008. He was an active leader in his industry, serving as President of the Virginia Chapter of the Health Physics Society and the American Industrial Hygiene Association, Tidewater Local Section.

Carter always believed in the importance of giving back to his community and served on many volunteer boards, including the United Way of the Virginia Peninsula, the Volunteer Center, the Peninsula Fine Arts Center, St. Andrew’s Day School, and the National Aeronautics Support Team.

His deep love and dedication for his family extended to his community and his faith. A lifelong member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, he served multiple terms on the vestry and as the Director and coach in the church’s youth basketball program for 26 years. He influenced the lives of countless young men on his teams, who later in life, he would call friends.

Sports were one of Carter’s greatest passions. An avid tennis player since his teens, he served multiple terms as president of the Hilton Tennis Club. In college, he also found a love for being on the other side of the ball as an official. He officiated high school softball, basketball, and football for many years and was one of the Peninsula Football Officials Association’s oldest crew chiefs. He found great joy in sharing his love of officiating in mentoring young officials, many of whom have gone on to officiate at the college level. In 2018, he received the Milestone Award from the Peninsula Sports Club, acknowledging his contributions during his 35-year career as a local official. But his love of sports was never more evident than in recent years when he was able to watch his grandchildren excel on the sports field.

A private family service will be held at Peninsula Funeral Home on Friday, February 5 at 3 p.m., and guests are invited to view the live stream service at www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video. All COVID restrictions will apply.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Newport News, earmarked for community outreach. Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Kathryn Sexton Galloway

Kathryn Sexton Galloway, 98, passed away Sunday, January 31, 2021. Born on May 25, 1922, of William Charles Sexton and Olivia Mae Dedmon Sexton, she was raised in Hendersonville, North Carolina, and graduated from Flat Rock High School in 1940. During World War II, she served her country as a defense worker at the Glen L. Martin Plant in Middle River, Maryland, building B-29 planes. After the war, she entered the civil service in Asheville, North Carolina, and transferred to Langley Field with the Air Force.

In 1950 she married Robert E. Galloway and raised a family in Newport News, Virginia. After raising two sons, she returned to the civil service and worked for the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command, which was then located at Fort Monroe.

Her interests included gardening, homemaking, church work, and work with developmentally challenged children.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert E. Galloway, and son, Michael H. Galloway. Survivors include her son, Robert E. Galloway, Jr., of New York, New York; granddaughter, Rebecca Mae Hendrickson; great-grandson, Tristan Michael Hendrickson; great-granddaughter, Freia Hendrickson of Texas; niece, Sondra Louise Hudson; nephews, William Hudson of Hendersonville, North Carolina, and Joseph Wade Hudson of Atlanta, Georgia; nieces, Sally Ann Gill of Chicago, Illinois, and Ellen Morrello of Newport News; nephew, Russell Evans, of Hampton Virginia and their spouses; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jeremy and Joyce Galloway of Williamsburg VA and their son, Quinn Galloway, and daughter, Donna Lee Galloway.

A graveside funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, February 6 at 12:00 p.m. at Peninsula Memorial Park, officiated by Reverend Jeremy Q. Galloway. Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 228 Twenty-Ninth Street, Newport News, VA 23607. Special thanks are due to all of those who cared for her so diligently and well at Warwick Forest Keswick Assisted Living, Riverside Private Duty, and Care Advantage.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Robert E. Shelton

Robert E. Shelton, 60, the son of Paul and Earline Shelton, passed away on January 31, 2021 after a three week battle with Covid-19. Services will be private.

Gene Clayton

Gene Clayton passed away on January 27, 2021, at his home in Newport News surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Belhaven, North Carolina, with many relatives still residing there. Gene enjoyed woodworking and refinishing furniture and his many years of playing poker with his poker buddies.

Gene is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 59+ years, Barbara; two exceptional sons, Rick (Hollie) and Bruce; six grandchildren, Ashley, Kirstin, Cassie, Corbin, Taylor, and Seth; three great-granddaughters Brianna, Madison, and Miya, who all lovingly called him “Gramps”; two sisters, three brothers. Nieces, nephews, and other extended family and friends plus his four very special friends, his dogs, Toby, Jake, Bentley, and Princess. His family was a constant source of love, pride, and joy to him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gene’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, February 3 at 1:00 p.m. at Peninsula Memorial Park.

“A golden heart stopped beating, hard-working hands to rest. God broke our hearts just to prove to us, he only takes the best!” The family has many, many memories that they will treasure forever. Memories pressed between the pages of our minds.  Gene was so loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Carroll W. Laity

Carroll W. Laity, age 84, passed away on January 26, 2021, from heart failure. He was a resident of Newport News and originally from North Carolina.  He retired from the USAF after 20 years of distinguished service and later from MARCO Supply Co after another 20 years.  He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church, Hampton VA.

Carroll was preceded in death by his mother, M. Elizabeth Long, father, Harry Laity (Annie Mae), brother, Raymond Laity, sister, Margaret Long, and daughter, Kim Stafford.  Carroll is survived by his wife of 35 years Roberta (Robbie) Laity; sons, Bryan Laity, David Laity, and Todd Laity (Sandy); granddaughters, Margaret Johnson (Brian), Magann Evans (Cliff), Sarah Laity, and Grace Laity; and four great-grandchildren.

Due to COVID, a private family service will be held at the Alford G. Horton Jr Veterans Memorial Cometary at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors, St Jude’s, or ASPCA.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Vickie Clayton Foley

Vickie Crayton Foley, 70, of Newport News was called to be with our Lord on Friday, January 22, 2021, at Riverside Hospital.  Vickie was a Hampton native, proud Hampton High graduate class of ‘68, and resident of Newport News.

Vickie was recently preceded in death by her father, Charles “Chuck” Crayton.  She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Andy Foley, III; mother, Buena “Sam” Crayton; sons, Andy (Grayce) Foley, IV, Patrick (Juli) Foley, and Matthew (Genny) Foley; brother, Gary (Rhonda) Crayton; grandchildren, Charlie, Sophia, Drew, and Carolina; as well as a several family members.

Vickie worked many years in the dental industry as a dental assistant and then as a scheduler before retiring.  She had also been a very active member of Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church, dedicated to its members and missions.

Vickie cared about those she met and was always devoted to both friends and family.  Consistently smiling and laughing, she genuinely embodied kindness as well as a spirit of welcome and comfort with all whom she came into contact.

Vickie enjoyed reading, scrapbooking, traveling, and playing with her grandchildren.  She could always be depended on to provide a listening ear or having a heartfelt conversation.  She will forever be cherished in hearts and through the many wonderful memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church at 1024 Harpersville Road, Newport News, VA 23601.  Due to Covid 19, the family is planning a virtual service on the Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church Facebook page to celebrate her life on Saturday, February 6th at 1pm.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Judith Ann Morris

Judith Ann Morris, neé Bourne, 83, passed away unexpectedly on January 24, 2021.   Born in Ilford, Essex, England, she came to the United States on Queen Elizabeth I at 16 years old. Married in 1956, she devoted her life to being a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-
grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas E. Morris Sr; son, Thomas E. Morris Jr; and daughter, Patricia C. Morris. Judith leaves behind her daughter, Cynthia “Cindy” A. Hicks, husband Rob; eight adoring grandchildren, Casey Morris Hanrahan, husband Mark, Caitlin Morris, Delaney Morris, Ian Hicks, Jett Hicks, Garrett Hicks, Brandon Hicks, and Faith Hicks; two beloved great-grandchildren, Landon Morris-Davis and Trent Hanrahan; cousin and closest friend, Jeanette Pearce, and family; sisters-in-law, Betty Bourne, Elizabeth Bourne, Ruth Morris, and many beloved nieces and nephews in the United States and England.

Due to current pandemic conditions, services are to be determined, please reach out to the family with inquiries and for updates.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Lorn Chhim

Lorn Chhim, 75, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away on Monday, January 25, 2021. He was born on February 1, 1945, in Takéo Province, Cambodia, to the late Chhim Sam and Por Han. He had been a Peninsula resident since 1997.
Lorn was a man of great compassion, integrity, and a strong believer in hard work. He was famously short-tempered, but his kindness far exceeded his shortcoming. He had a deep connection to his hometown and always looked for ways to give back to his community. Lorn was passionate about politics and enjoyed sharing and discussing his views with others. He was also known for his love of chess, palm reading, sad love songs, and most notably, a grandmaster of making up creative terms of endearment for each of his children.

Lorn grew up on a farm where he was born and attended school. After graduating college in 1970, he worked as a Military Police officer. From 1975 to 1979, he survived one of the most horrific atrocities in human history when a communist regime seized power in Cambodia.
After the war, he became a physics professor before landing a job at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. In 1997, Lorn relocated to the United States. For many years, he worked at various jobs to support his family and to ensure his children would get a proper education.

Last year Lorn celebrated 50 years of marriage that produced nine children, eighteen grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.  He is survived by his wife, Kimsourn Im; sons, Sokhama Chhim, Kosal Chhim, Makara Chhim, Vatanak Chhim; daughters, Saravy Chhim, Kimsien Chhim, Chenda Chhim, Sotheary Chhim, Samnang Chhim; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will be limited to family only and guests are invited to participate in the service through live streaming (www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video) on Saturday, January 30, 2021, at 11:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park Cemetery at 12:30 p.m. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Ruth Melrose Turner Wilson

Harriett Lee Enzor

Harriett Lee Enzor, 86, of Newport News, Va., passed away peacefully in Virginia Beach on January 23, 2021 with her daughter, Andrea, by her side. She was born on August 6, 1934 in Newport News, to the late James F Spotts, Sr. and Myrtle Ware Spotts.

She attended Newport News High School and as a young woman, worked for the Adelson Family at North End Pharmacy, running the soda fountain and later, as a clerk. It was there that she met a handsome, charismatic shipyard worker, Andrew C. Enzor “Andy”, who would later become her spouse. Harriett and Andy were both recently divorced when they met. She had one son from a previous marriage and he had four children of his own. They married and blended their families, settling into their new home in Denbigh. Four years later, they welcomed the birth of their daughter Andrea.

She then transitioned to Denbigh Pharmacy where she retired as a clerk after many years. Harriett was a kind, caring, and extremely devoted wife and mother. Her priority was her family, even while working full time and running a household. She was an exemplary role model for her children and theirs. She had a heart of gold and saw the good in everyone. After retirement, she and Andy were passionate about being “Memaw” and “Pawpaw” to their grandchildren and being a strong presence in their lives. Andy passed in 2017, after 55 years of marriage. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister Marilyn Corriher, son and daughter-in-law Larry S. and BJ McCandless, and grandson Zachary Bracken. She is survived by her five children and their spouses: Andrea Enzor Bracken (Scott), David Enzor (Cynthia), Debbie Viets (Don), Tim Enzor (Donna), and Mike Enzor (Barbara); eight grandchildren: Matt, Donald, Wayne, Mindy, Andrew, Keith, Jillian and Angie; five great-grandchildren; sister LaVerne Broczkowski; brother James Spotts, Jr.; sisters-in-law: Doris Harwood and Geraldine Fructchman (Irv); nieces, nephew, and friends.

Harriett was blessed to have many faithful neighbors, for she resided in the same home in which she and Andy raised their children for almost 60 years. Neighbors from the block have been incredibly supportive over the years – they were extended family and loved dearly.

A special thanks to Mary Beth Morgan P.A. of TPMG Grafton, the staff at Denbigh Pharmacy, and all of the Healthcare Specialists that supplied the most professional care to Harriett over the years. Most recently, the compassionate staff of Sentara Princess Anne Hospital and Westminster Hospice at Home.

A graveside service will be held at at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 31, 2021 at Peninsula Memorial Park in the Garden of the Good Shepherd. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Lorna Kay Barringer

Lorna Kay Barringer, age 67, of Newport News, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2021, after many weeks battling COVID-19. Lorna was well known for her big heart, especially when it came to the many pets she cared for throughout her lifetime. She was dedicated to her beloved father and was his sole caregiver for the last 10 years.

Lorna was preceded in death by her mother, Mildred Tucker Barringer. She is survived by her father, Raymond Cline Barringer; brother, David Cline Barringer; niece, Lorna Renee Barringer Auby; nephew, Brian David Barringer; great nieces; great nephews; and many close and longtime friends. She also leaves behind a feral cat she called Fat Boy that she was very attached to. Lorna believed a well-fed cat was a loved cat and she loved him very much.

Lorna was a free spirit who felt most at ease with nature and endearingly surrounded herself with an impressive collection of frogs that she will always be remembered fondly for.

A memorial gathering will be held in the spring with close friends and family. As an expression of sympathy, contributions may be sent in Lorna’s honor to Animal Aid Society, 80 Butler Farm Road, Hampton, VA 23666, or online: www.animalaidsociety.org.

Frederick “Sonny” C. Johnson, Sr.

Frederick “Sonny” C. Johnson, Sr., 81, passed away on January 24, 2021. He was a native of Hampton, VA and a resident of Williamsburg. Sonny served two years in the U.S. Army and later became President/owner of Johnson Auto Parts, retiring after 30 years. He was a member of the Khedive Shriners.

Sonny was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane A. Johnson; parents, Frank C. and Ethel L. Johnson; and brother, Coleman L. Johnson. He is survived by his son, Frederick “Butch” C. Johnson II (Trina); daughter, Jennifer “Sissy” A. Bryant; grandchildren, Hatie, Summer, John, Cody, Trevor, Sonnie, and Jack; four great-grandchildren; brothers, John Johnson (Ann) and Curtis Johnson; sisters, Shirley Williams (Sonny), Beverly Sweeney (Bobby), and Ethel Carmines (Ted); and close friend and caregiver, Cheryl Montgomery.

The family wishes to thank Kelly Gilbert with Riverside Health System for her care and support.

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 1, 2021 at Peninsula Memorial Park. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice House and Support Care of Williamsburg.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Ann Elizabeth Powell

Ann Elizabeth Powell, 88, of Hampton, VA died peacefully on January 24, 2021 at Walter Reed Hospital in Gloucester.

Ann retired from Sears after 25 years. She was a faithful member of West Hampton Baptist Church for 56 years where she served on various committees, sang in the senior adult choir, and enjoyed serving others by working in the church clothes closet. She loved her family, was quick to laugh and would often roll her eyes. Ann enjoyed camping, boating and going to the beach. One of her favorite activities was going to Red’s Pier (Huntington Park) to laugh at people who would attempt to launch their boats at the beginning of the season.

Ann is predeceased by her husband of 56 years, William “Buddy” Powell; great-grandson, Grayson; parents, Levander and Lavinia Morris; and brother, Marvin Morris. She is survived by four daughters, Cynthia Ann Foss (Richard), Joy Wigglesworth (Robert), Sherry Laibstain, and Tammy Curtiss; ten grandchildren, Mandy (Mark), Robert Jr. (Angela), Elizabeth, Richard Jr. (Stacey), Kimberly, William (Marybeth), Katie, Sarah, Matthew, and Jeremy; and fifteen great-grandchildren, Emily, Derek, Clara, Adeline, Amberly, Jonathan, Jessie, Ava, Dylan, Brady, Sunny, Nicholas, Makenzie, Lily, and Dayton; and former sons in-law, Harry Laibstain and Ron Curtiss.

We thank Jon Aldridge and the wonderful staff at Mennowood Retirement Community for their excellent care of Ann, especially for the love, kindness and respect given by the memory care unit during the last few years of her life.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday February 1, 2021 at Hampton Memorial Gardens, with Rev. Danny Owens officiating. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. The family requests that in lieu of flowers a donation be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Dorothy Lee McCormick Newton

Dorothy Lee McCormick Newton, 96, of Newport News passed away peacefully on January 23, 2021 with her three children by her side. She was the daughter of John and Bessie McCormick. For over 60 years, she was a faithful member of Riverside Baptist Church. She loved traveling with friends including trips to Israel and Hawaii. She also enjoyed growing and sharing fresh vegetables from her family’s garden.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Charles E. Newton and her two brothers, Acree and John McCormick. She is survived by her daughters, Carol Reynolds (preceded in death by Steve) and Debbie Kincaid (Nick), and son, Chuck Newton (Tina). She was “Gran” to Stacy (John), Anthony (Sarah), Michelle (Jaime), Candice and Alana, and nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived by two sisters, Elsie Jones (Joe) and June Taylor (Joe), and three sisters-in-law, Peggy Ragans (Mac), Linda Cole and Faye Newton Satterfield.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at Peninsula Memorial Park in Newport News. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. Memorial donations may be made to Riverside Baptist Church, 7409 River Road, Newport News, VA 23607.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Evelyn “Jean” Davis

Evelyn “Jean” Davis, 94, passed away on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.  She lived her entire life in Newport News and was married for 66 years to George William Davis, Jr., who predeceased her.  She was a long-time member of Denbigh Baptist Church and later Grace Baptist Chapel.  Her faith played a significant role in her life.  She loved gardening and during her younger years, she and her husband enjoyed camping with their many friends.

Survivors include her sister, Elisabeth Eddy (Jerry) of Warren, Mi.; brother,  Paul A. White, Jr. (Joyce) of James City County, Va.; daughters, Linda D. Good (Roger) of Yorktown, Va. and Lou Ann D. Hughes of San Antonio, Tx.; sons, Donald W. Davis (Mary) of Newport News, Va., and Douglas G. Davis (Sue) of Ashburn, Va.; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at Peninsula Funeral Home, with Rev. Ryan Davidson officiating.  The burial will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.   Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

JoAnn Burrell

JoAnn Burrell, 79, passed away on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at Riverside Hospital.  She was a native and resident of Newport News.
JoAnn was preceded in death by her mother, Helen Coffey, father, George Mowry, and life-long partner-Dale Beck.  She is survived by her son, Larry Burrell, and his wife, Tracy; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; brothers, Donald Mowry and Brain Mowry; one niece, one nephew, and close friend, Becky Sheets.
The family will receive friends on Friday, January 29 at 11:00 a.m. at  Parkview Baptist Church, with a funeral service following at 12:00 p.m.  Interment will be at Peninsula Memorial Park.  Facial masks and social distancing will be required.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Lieutenant David Gordon Hirlinger

Lieutenant David Gordon Hirlinger (US Navy Retired) passed away on January 16, 2021 at Riverside Hospital. He was born November 4, 1962 in Subic Bay, Philippines. After graduating from Woodbridge High School, he enlisted in the US Navy in August of 1980, where he completed the course of instruction at OS “A” school and received his first assignment aboard the USS Vreeland (FF-1068) as an “Operations Specialist” Petty Officer. Dave quickly advanced through the enlisted ranks achieving many commendations, including “Sailor of the Quarter” once and “Sailor of the Year” twice.    His many awards include the Navy Achievement Medal, The Joint Service Achievement Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Joint Service Commendation Medal.  He made five deployments during his 25 years of service, aboard the USS Vreeland (FF-1068), USS Richard E. Byrd (DDG-23), USS Ainsworth (FF-1090), USS Ticonderoga (CG-47) and USS Bataan (LHD-5).   Lt. Hirlinger was accepted to and completed his training at Officer Training School and advanced to LDO (Ensign) in December, 1995. He retired from the USN in November 2005 as a Lieutenant (O3).

He earned his Master’s degree from Cambridge College in December 2005.  He worked as a Software Test Engineer for TQI Solutions, Inc. after he retired from Military Service.    Dave was a man of great faith and served his church as an Elder and Finance Officer for many years.  During his life he volunteered his time with the Newport News Police Department and Virginia Special Olympics.

Dave was preceded in death by his father Kenneth Ray Hirlinger, Sr.  He is survived by his mother, Mary (Mayberry) Hirlinger, Ord, NE; his wife Ramona (Yanko) Hirlinger, Newport News, VA;  his only son, John Hirlinger Saylor and husband Nicholas Hirlinger Saylor, Burbank, CA; two brothers Michael Hirlinger and wife Sue (Brown) Hirlinger, Burwell, NE, and Kenneth Ray Hirlinger, Jr. and wife Charon (Mader) Hirlinger, Smithfield, VA;  two nieces Anne Hirlinger and Lauren Hirlinger, and three nephews Sean Hirlinger,  and Jerry and Alex Herron.

The family held a private service on January 23, 2021.  Interment with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of your favorite charity. Arrangements by Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Marjorie B. Michael

Marjorie B. Michael of Newport News passed away peacefully on January 14, 2021, at the Gardens at Warwick Forest Retirement Community after several years of declining health.   She lived a very long, happy, and active life. She was predeceased by her parents, Guy Weston and Alice Ward Boswick, brother, Guy Weston Boswick Jr, and sister, Dorothy Boswick Greenman.

Marjorie was a graduate of Newport News High School and Longwood College and taught school before her daughters were born. Marjorie and Bill had many wonderful travels in the United States, Europe, and beyond and they greatly enjoyed their home of many years on the James River and their beach cottage at Sandbridge.
She enjoyed many activities including tennis, golf, needlework, and was active at Hidenwood Presbyterian Church as well as many volunteer groups.  There was nothing she enjoyed more than spending time with her family and friends.

Marjorie is survived by her husband of 68 years, Dr. William H. Michael Jr.; daughters, Caroline M. Rawls (John Perry) of Virginia Beach and Cynthia M. Andrews (Richard) of Wilmington, NC; grandsons, Harvey Pretlow Rawls III, Guy Edward Rawls, Dickson Butler Bridger, Michael Ward Bridger; and her favorite granddaughter, Julia Caroline Andrews.

We would like to thank the Chesapeake Unit of the Gardens for the outstanding and compassionate care that Marjorie received in the past few years.

A Celebration of her life will be held at later date.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Gerald “Jerry”  T. Lane

Gerald “Jerry” T. Lane, 70, passed away on January 17, 2021.  He was a native of Pennsylvania and a resident of Newport News for 53 years. He retired from Colas, Inc. as a Procurement Manager after two years of service.

Jerry was preceded in death by his father, John D. Lane, Sr.; mother, Anna A. Campbell; sister, June DeShullo; and brother, John D. Lane, Jr..  He is survived by his companion of 30 years, Betty Gatewood; sister; Joyce Winters (Jeffrey); brother, James P. Lane (Linda); five nieces and nephews; and nine great-nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Raymond “Berry” Drinkard

On Tuesday, January 19, 2021, Raymond “Berry” Drinkard, loving husband, father, and friend passed away at home with his wife and daughters by his side at the age of 57.  His battle with lung cancer, since October 2020, showed his perseverance in facing life challenges with jokes and a smile. Despite the pain, Berry came out as a hero and stayed strong until the end.

Berry was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Edward Drinkard, and his son-in-law, Cody Lee Brewton.  He is survived by his wife Carrie;  two daughters, Dezaray Brewton and Celina Raye Drinkard; mother, Carol Sparrow (Lynn); two sisters, Cindy Brunner (Barry), and Angie Crisson; several nieces and nephews; and his Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Kendra.

Berry was a Machine Specialist C at Canon Virginia in Newport News for 14 years.  He was not only a hard worker but a mentor to his co-workers and always went above and beyond for his company.  Berry had a passion for fixing things and learning new trades which allowed him to be a good provider for his family.

Due to COVID precautions, a private Memorial Service will be held at Peninsula Funeral Home on Saturday, January 23, at 3:00 p.m., and guests are invited to participate in the service through live streaming (www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video).  Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA.

Berry will never be forgotten and always be greatly missed.  

Mary L. Nicholls

Mary L. Nicholls, 87, passed away at home on Thursday, January 14, 2021.  She was born in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, on December 26, 1933 and moved to Newport News in 1954.  Mary retired from Sears & Roebuck after many years of service.  Following her retirement from Sears she worked at Busch Gardens for over 25 years.  She was a lifelong member of the Warwick Yacht & Country Club which she dearly loved.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald “Jerry” Nicholls.  She is survived by her daughter, Lynn Burcher, and her husband Steve, and her grandson, Bradley Burcher, all of Newport News.

A heartfelt thank you to Heartland Hospice and their staff, Gale Burcher, Natalie Krebs, Emma Krebs, Sue Johnson, Bradley Burcher, and Julie Blake for their care and support.

A private interment will be held Thursday, January 21, 2021.  A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements handled by Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Lucy Cherry Ambrose

Lucy Cherry Ambrose, 97, of Newport News, Virginia, died Friday, January 15, 2021.  She was born December 3, 1923, in Washington, North Carolina and was a long-time resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, before moving to Newport News in 2000.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard E. Ambrose, her parents, Samuel B. and Myrten W. Cherry and her brothers, Samuel Dallas Cherry and Charlie W. Cherry.  She is survived by her daughter, Shirley Ambrose Hatten (Frank Moore), her son, Bill Ambrose (Anne), and her only grandson, Christopher Hilton, all of Newport News, and her sisters-in-law, Ollie H. Cherry of Clemmons, North Carolina, Geri Ambrose of Washington, North Carolina and June Cherry of Miami, Florida.  She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and grand-nieces and grand-nephews.

Lucy graduated from Washington High School, Washington, North Carolina in 1942 and married her high school sweetheart in 1945.   She and Richard spent almost 60 years together until his death in 2005.  She was a homemaker for many years before joining her husband as his office manager, accountant and customer service clerk in his television repair business, A&T Television Company in Portsmouth, Virginia, retiring in 1988.

Lucy was all about family.  She could recite birthdates of any family member from memory well into her 90’s.  She was gentle and kind and loved all her family unconditionally.   She was extremely proud of her grandson, Chris, and was known to talk on the phone for hours with her nieces.  She loved receiving cards in the mail and was showered with cards by her niece, Kathy, almost every day for many years.

The family wishes to thank the staff and nurses at The Gardens at Warwick Forest, Chesapeake Unit in Newport News, where Lucy lived for the last two years of her life.  We especially thank Tameka and Aundrea, whose care and affection for Miss Lucy will always be remembered.

A graveside service conducted by Rev. Michael Condrey will be held at 1:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at Peninsula Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to make remembrance contributions are asked to send them to First Presbyterian Church, 514 S. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23669 or to a favorite charity.

Seo Boon Soon

Seo Boon Soon (also known as Halmony) passed from this earth on January 14, 2021. Halmony was born February 22, 1923 in Kwangyang City, South Korea. She was the loving and devoted wife to her husband, Joo Man Jo, who has predeceased her.

Halmony is survived by her four children: son Woo Jun, daughter Kyong Ja and her husband Blake Anderson, Sr., daughter Yong Ja, daughter Sook Ja, 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Family was the center of Halmony’s life. She doted on all her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Later in life, she was an active member of the Peninsula Korean Baptist Church and a regular at all the church’s Senior Group activities. She will be dearly missed by all whose lives she touched.

Her funeral service will be held graveside on Monday, January 18 at 1:00 p.m. at the Peninsula Memorial Park Cemetery, with her burial following immediately after. Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Friends may join the funeral procession, which will depart at 12:30 p.m. from the Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd in Newport News and proceed to the cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.

Doris Anne Bryant

Doris Anne Bryant, the wife of the late Tom Bryant, was called to Heaven on January 6, 2021. She devoted her life to her family, home, and church. Doris Anne was a member of Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church for more than 50 years. She was a member of United Methodist Women Circle 6 and served as leader of the circle several times over her many years. Doris Anne was a children’s Sunday School teacher and also enjoyed many lunch dates with the Red Hat Society. Also, our family is proud of the civic duty she performed as a lead election poll worker in her precinct in the City of Newport News for over 30 years.

Born in North Carolina on July 2, 1934 the only child of Corbitt and Doris Bridgers, she grew up with the love of many Spivey cousins on her mother’s side and they all remained close throughout her lifetime.

Doris Anne is survived by her son, Tommy, her daughter, Teri Forman (Donald); two grandchildren, who she adored, Ashley Forman and Kelly B. Forman (Allison); she was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Ava Lily, Greyson, Vale Bryant, and Savannah. Doris Anne was loved by them all!

A graveside service was held on Monday, January 11. In lieu of flowers, a gift in memory of Doris Anne to Chestnut Memorial United Methodist Church is requested.

Arrangements were handled by Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.  

Betty Rea Wright Swain

Betty Rea Wright Swain, age 82, of Newport News, VA passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. She grew up in Waynesboro, VA, and had been an active Hampton Roads resident since 1957. Betty was the owner of the local’s favorite restaurant, The Lunch Bell, where she made delicious desserts for 37 years alongside employees who became her second family. She had a deep love for Northside Christian Church for over 50 years where she played piano for several Sunday school classes and participated in countless church events.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 57 years, Bill Swain, and parents, Shelah and Kermit Harris. Betty is survived by her son, Billy Swain (Debra); daughters, Blair Sanchez, and Shelah Swain (David); grandchildren, Ashley Darcy, Jay Darcy (Rachel), Tyler McKee (Catherine), Jennie Ann Swain and fiancé Zach Westfall, Mallory Lynn Dame (Zack), Grae William Muth, and Annie Kate Swain; honorary granddaughter Lila Kate Magro; great-grandchildren, William Swain Darcy, Meredith Lynn Dame, and Jeffrey Coleman Dame; and her sister, Peggy Argy; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The Celebration of the Life of Betty will be limited to family only and guests are invited to participate in the service through live streaming (www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video) on Saturday, January 16, 2021, at 1 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home 11144 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601. Interment will be in Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. Because of Covid-19 regulations, facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.

Mary Brock Jones

Mary Brock Jones, 98, went to be with the Lord on January 11, 2021. She was originally from Farmville, N.C. and had been a peninsula resident for over 65 years.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, John A. Jones. She is survived by her sons, Alan C. Jones and his wife, Lee Jine of Jacksonville, Fl., and Robert D. Jones and his wife, Margaret of Yorktown, Va.

The family would like to thank the staff of Regency Health and Rehabilitation Center for their kindness and loving care.

A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at Hampton Memorial Gardens, conducted by Rev. Richard Barnes. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Harold Levinson

Harold Levinson, age 95, passed away January 9, 2021 at home with his loving family by his side. He was a lifelong resident of the peninsula and life member of Adath Jeshurun Synagogue. He was born in Newport News and graduated Newport News High School in 1943 where he played in the band as a drummer. He loved his music, so after high school he played in bands touring the states with the big swing bands. Eventually he came back to Newport News and became a merchant and opened up an appliance store on Jefferson Avenue. Later he started to invest in real estate which he pursued until 2020. His second love was sportfishing which he did until age 94. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who delighted in sharing his advice to his family, especially his granddaughters who affectionately called him “Papa”.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Bessie Levinson, two brothers, J Leonard Levinson and Robert Levinson. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife Terry, devoted son Tony Levinson (Amy), granddaughters Lauren and Alyssa Levinson, numerous nieces and nephews and Wayne Gousse who was like a son to him.

We would like to thank his caregivers Christina and Kiyana with Hospice and Tina with Amada Senior Care whom were all a blessing.

Arrangements entrusted to Peninsula Funeral Home. There will be a private service due to covid-19. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to a charity of your choice.

Charles C. Meekins, Sr.

Charles C. Meekins, Sr., 82, passed away on Wednesday, January 6, 2021, at his home.  He was a native of Norfolk, VA, and had been a resident of Newport News for 65 years.  Charles was a Plant Supervisor at Air Products and Chemicals for 23 years. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War.

Charles is preceded in death by his parents, Robert Curtis and Eleanor Pumphrey, and his brother, Edward Meekins.  He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia Kay Meekins; daughter, Sharon Musselwhite (Harrison); sons, Charles C. Meekins, Jr. (Sandra), Bryan K. Meekins, and Michael W. Meekins; 14 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery.  Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Clarence Lee Clodfelter, Jr.

Clarence Lee Clodfelter, Jr. of Newport News, 83, passed away on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. He was born in Durham, NC, and had been a resident of the Peninsula for over 75 years. He was a pharmacist and owner and operator of Brentwood Pharmacy. Clarence completed his career with Rite Aid and retired in 2018, after serving 56 years in the business. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Virginia Pharmaceutical Association, Past President of Mended Hearts, a member of Bremond Masonic Lodge #241. He was also a member of Newport News Scottish Rite, Warwick Masonic Lodge #336, and Warwick Royal Arch Chapter #80. As a resident of The Chesapeake, he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and lifelong learning experiences.

Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Clarence L. Clodfelter, Sr. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Pauline “Polly” Whelchel Clodfelter; two daughters, Pam C. Youngblood (Pat) and Paula C. Mobley (Richard); son, Clarence Lee Clodfelter, III (Marci); grandchildren, Mason Youngblood, Ben Youngblood, Brian Youngblood, Stephen Mobley (Alexa), Katherine Mobley and Cordelia Clodfelter; two sisters, Anne Tucker (Roy) and Jean Gulick (Jim); and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held and guests are invited to participate in the service through live streaming (www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video) on Saturday, January 9, at 11:00 a.m. A private family interment will be held at Peninsula Memorial Park.

Memorial donations may be made to Mended Hearts (https://mendedhearts.org/).

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Lois Burks Davis

Lois Burks Davis (nee Thorn) passed onto her heavenly reward on Saturday, January 2, 2021. Born August 12, 1923 in Ivor, Virginia, Lois lived a long and happy life. She married William R. Burks in 1941 and lived all of their more than 50 years together on the Peninsula, with their children Jerry and Kay. Lois worked many years as an executive secretary with the Hampton Paint Company, Atlantic Mill Works and her son’s company, Burks’ Bookkeeping. She was a lifelong member of Ivy Memorial Baptist Church. Lois married Murphy Davis, her high school sweetheart, in 1998 when they reconnected after both were widowed. They enjoyed almost 16 years together.

Lois enjoyed traveling whether the trip was long or short. She enjoyed many trips across the United States, visited Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and took a train trip to the Grand Canyon. On the journeys, Lois always made a plan to visit with family and friends along the way, enhancing her enjoyment of the trip and making many fond memories. Two of the most important things in her life were her family and her faith, both of which brought her comfort and joy throughout her long life. She had two sisters and two brothers who she was close with. And she enjoyed lifelong relationships with her nieces and nephews. Her church family gave her close friends whom she cherished and stayed close with throughout the years. These close connections with friends and family made her life rich and full of love.

Lois was preceded in death by her two husbands Dick Burks and Murphy Davis; her daughter Kay McCormick and her son Jerry Burks. She is survived by her granddaughters Stephanie Sarris (Jim) of Smithfield, VA and Margaret Frazier (Michael) of Leesburg, VA; her great grandson Zachary Sarris also of Smithfield; her daughter-in-law Terry Burks, and numerous nieces and nephews. In support of Lois’ dedication to community and faith, in lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations to charities such as the Food Bank of the Virginia Peninsula, Heifer International, or a charity of your choice.

A private grave side service will be conducted at Peninsula Memorial Park.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Clarence “Pete” Orville Keffer

Clarence “Pete” Orville Keffer of Yorktown died on Sunday, January 3, 2021 at the age of 97. Pete is survived by daughters, Kasey Keffer and Kelly Westmoreland and husband Larry and grandsons, Tyler Castaneda and Daniel Westmoreland. He will join his beloved wife Barbara and son Mark.

There will be no funeral services. Pete chose not to be remembered in death but in life through his relationships with the people he left behind who greatly love him.

He lived with integrity and honor, and the upmost honesty and kindness. He was a good husband, a great dad and a wonderful person. He will be greatly missed.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Peggy Ancell Farmer

Peggy Ancell Farmer, 74, passed away on December 31, 2020 at Riverside Regional Medical Center. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and close friend to many. A native of Hampton, Virginia, Peggy was a resident of Poquoson for the past 40+ years. She retired from M. Price Distributing Company and was most recently employed with Peninsula Funeral Home.

Peggy was preceded in rest by her first husband, Bobby Ancell; mother, Julia Moore; father, Jack Turnage; and granddaughter, Samantha Johnson. She is survived by her husband of 34 years, David Farmer; daughter, Tammy Johnson; sons, David Farmer, Jr., and Steven Farmer; four grandchildren, Steven Farmer, Jr., Ellen Owens, Madison Johnson, and Abigail Johnson; great- grandchild, Ashby Owens; sister, Cecile Hopkins; brothers, Robert “Buddy” Turnage and Kevin Moore; and countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 8, 2021 at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., in Newport News, officiated by Scott Moore. Interment will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park. Guests are required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing. Please go to www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video for live streaming.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Carolyn Boisky Seay

Carolyn Boisky Seay, 74, passed away on Sunday, December 27, 2020.  She was a native of Fayetteville, NC, and was a resident of Newport News.

Carolyn was a member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, Junior Woman’s Club of Hilton Village – Past President, and Junior League of Hampton Roads, former Miss Fayetteville High School and Miss 82nd Airborne Division.

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents, Robert L. Boisky, Sr. and Ethel J. Boisky.  She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Everette M. “Sonny” Seay, III; son, Everette M. Seay, IV (Kristen) of Jacksonville, FL; two grandchildren, E. Meade Seay, V and Charlotte Alice Seay; sister, Patricia Boisky Alexander (Bob) of Suffolk, VA; two brothers, Robert L. Boisky, Jr. of Birmingham, Alabama and Charles Richard Boisky (Carolann) of Leland, NC; nieces, Alicia Alexander Helms (Nathan) of Knoxville, TN and Katherine B. Pittman (Stewart) of Wilmington, NC; and nephews, Michael R. Alexander (Christy) of Norfolk, VA, and Charles R. Boisky, Jr. (Denis) of Henrico, VA.

A private Memorial Service will be held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church at a later date.  Memorial donations may be made in Carolyn’s name to The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, 401 W Duke of Gloucester St, Williamsburg, VA 23185 (www.colonialwilliamsburg.org/).

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Lilian Hoaglund

On December 27, 2020, Lilian Hoaglund passed away peacefully in her home with her family by her side after a long battle with cancer. She will be remembered as a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, a caring friend and neighbor, and a thoughtful, generous person. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 46 years, John Hoaglund, and her parents, Gunnar and Magdalena (Manecke) Nilsson.

Lilian was born April 3, 1940, in Ludvika, Sweden, and grew up there with her older sister, Maj-Britt, and their parents. After completing her education and living in Stockholm for a year she moved to Germany to work as a secretary in the Swedish Consulate in West Berlin, where she later met her American husband. The couple were married June 18, 1966, in Ludvika. They settled in West Berlin and had two children before moving to Newport News, Virginia, in 1973 when John accepted a position teaching Philosophy and Logic at Christopher Newport College.

Lilian began her career in the U.S. working as a secretary for the City of Newport News, later working at the BASF Corporation in Williamsburg, and finally in the president’s office at the College of William and Mary, where she retired in 2007 after thirteen years of dedicated service. She also went back to college and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, graduating with honors from Christopher Newport College in 1991.

Fluent in Swedish, German and English, Lilian loved to travel. She visited Europe often over the years, seeing relatives and friends in Sweden and also spending time in France, Germany, and Italy. When the children were young, the family had adventurous summers, traveling across America by car and through Europe by car and train. In 1980, the family spent half a year living in Norway after John was awarded a Fulbright at the University of Bergen, and in 1986 they spent three weeks traveling in Greece. All of her life Lilian was very close to her sister, Maj-Britt, who lives in Sweden. The two stayed in touch with phone calls and traveled together as often as possible. They took many fun trips together with their husbands and later just the two of them. In recent years, Lilian had taken trips with her sister and friends to Austria, Spain, Morocco, Portugal, Jordan, and Turkey, and even rode in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia.

With her husband she shared a love of art, classical music, theatre and opera. Together they visited many art museums in the U.S. and Europe and frequently attended performances locally and in Washington, D.C., and New York City. The couple also shared the work of running their own small publishing company. Lilian enjoyed reading, cooking, swimming, and being in nature. She tended the many flowers in her yard and often walked in the park on the Noland Trail. She was an avid beachgoer, having owned a vacation home in Virginia Beach for 17 years, and the family often spent the holiday season on the warm sands of the Caribbean.

Lilian was a kind, wonderful person with a great sense of humor. Young at heart, she enjoyed having fun with friends and family, including spending time with and caring for her young grandson. As a septuagenarian, she surprised her family by embracing new technology like the iPad, iPhone and Apple Watch. She was an energetic and selfless person, always endeavoring to make life easier for those around her.

Lilian will be dearly missed. She leaves behind her daughter Larissa Hoaglund and her husband, Thomas Persichetti, of Alexandria, Virginia; her son Glen Hoaglund, his wife Jessica, and her grandson Hudson, of Virginia Beach; her sister Maj-Britt Frangos of Stockholm, Sweden; and her nephew Per Nilsson and his family of Stockholm, Sweden.

Due to COVID restrictions a private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society at cancer.org/involved/donate/memorial-giving.html.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

William Locke “Buck” Rogers

William Locke “Buck” Rogers, 80, of Newport News, Virginia played his final hand on December 29, 2020.  Buck was born on Labor Day, September 2, 1940, in Evanston, Illinois, thus beginning a lifetime love of bad jokes and bad puns.
An accountant by training, Buck spent his free time “roughing” it in rural Illinois with the Chicago area Boy Scouts. Buck received the Vigil Honor, the highest award given by the Boy Scouts National Honor Society, the Order of the Arrow. He also received the Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service from his local Boy Scout council.
After 47 years of grueling winters and coincidentally a job transfer, Buck moved from Chicago to Virginia.

Buck finished his work career in Virginia with the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters Thrift Stores. After retiring, he dedicated the bulk of his time to two new-found passions: bridge and coin collecting. He also continued his participation in Boy Scouts, but after 39 years, he realized that sleeping on the ground isn’t actually that much fun.
Buck regularly played six days a week and could almost always be found at the Peninsula Duplicate Bridge Club in Newport News. Due to his dedication and willingness to drive for hours to find a good game, Buck achieved a Sapphire Life Master ranking from the American Contract Bridge League. Without the curse of COVID, Buck probably would have achieved a Diamond Life Master ranking, but fell 42 points short of his goal. When not counting his cards, Buck was busy counting his coins. His extensive coin collection ranges over denominations, centuries, and countries. This Christmas, he received the last coin needed to complete his collection of Morgan dollars.
Buck is survived by his wife, Ann Marie Wyatt-Rogers; and four children: William Locke Rogers, Jr., Stephen Mitchell Rogers, Andrew Wyatt, and Megan Ann Player; and a sister, Katherine Buckles.   Additionally, he leaves behind seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and numerous in-laws, extended family, and friends.

The family is invited to participate in a Memorial Service at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, January 13, at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.  Friends may live-stream the event at https://peninsulafuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank, https://hrfoodbank.org.

Randolph Donald Davis

Randolph Donald Davis (Donald), 88 years old, died December 28, 2020. He graduated Newport News High School in 1950. Donald then attended Lynchburg College and graduated with a BS in Biology. He went to work at Hidenwood Pharmacy until he retired in 1994.

Donald was an accomplished piano player and enjoyed classical music.

He is survived by his brothers, Robert “Bobby” Davis (wife, Rita Martin) and Richard Davis (wife, Dru Bryant); and loving nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, January 7, 2021, 2:00p.m. in Greenlawn Cemetery.

Sonja S. Allen

Draxie Myers, 88, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on December 29, 2020, after a short battle with COVID-19 at Riverside Hospital. There she joined her beloved husband, Archie, for whom she had a longing. They fell in love at first sight in 1951 over a hot dog stand in downtown Newport News and never stopped until his passing in 1992.

Mom is preceded in death by her parents William and Mary Newsome, two angel grandchildren, great-grandchildren June Myers, an angel great-grandchild, and more angel great-grandchildren Hope, Faith, Isaiah, Nehemiah, Joy, and Selah Jane Snyder. She leaves behind four children: Ernie Myers (wife, Debbie), Ronnie Myers, Kathy Warren (husband, Hal), and Bonnie Myers (husband, Rex Scarborough). She also leaves behind grandchildren Josh Myers (wife, Sarah), Cal Myers (wife, Sterling), Jonathan Warren (wife, Susie), David Warren (wife, Ira), Christabel Snyder (husband, Andrew), Seth Warren (fiancé, Jack), and Joseph Warren (wife, Daryl).

Mom’s three great passions in life were Jesus and her church, gardening/flowers, and grandchildren/great-grandchildren. Before her falls necessitating a move to the Devonshire, she rarely missed a Sunday at West Hampton Baptist Church, where she had been a member for over 52 years. The only times she missed were to see her son or grandson preach at their church or go to her other grandchildren’s church. She loved eating out with them, enjoying stories of their weeks, and talking to them anytime they called.

Gardening and flowers were dear to Mom. Early in the morning was her favorite time, and you would see her out in the yard right about dawn. She said it had to do with being raised in the country and getting up for chores before school or play. Her thumb was green all the way up—a green arm, really.  Her “chores” were keeping the house spotless and taught that to her kids and grandkids and cooking that was out of this world. Archie would often say of her fried chicken that Colonel Sanders had nothing on his honey.

Mom would spend time with us children, teaching us and reading to us when we were sick. She really spent time with her grandchildren. She was retired by then and had them at her house regularly. They bowled in the back hallway, climbed the apple tree outside, made squash patties on Fridays and made cakes with chocolate frosting, walked or drove them to school, played Bingo at the mall during breaks and summer, had the most fun garage sales with them, and just enjoyed life. She went to Busch Gardens, rode the ferry, and went to Disney with her grandkids.

Mom’s life was full and long. She lived well, loved others and Jesus, and left a lasting legacy that others can follow. The saddest part was ending in a COVID-19 death that could not have been foreseen but could most likely have been prevented. Wear your mask, wash your hands, stay 6 feet apart, and get your shot. Mom told me that.

Mom will lie in state on Wednesday, January 6 from 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.  A private graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 7, at 11:00 a.m. at Parklawn

Memorial donations, in Mom’s name, may be made to West Hampton Baptist Church, 631 Aberdeen Rd, Hampton, VA 23661 (www.whbcnow.org/).

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Grady Monroe Blaylock

Grady Monroe Blaylock, age 85, of Williamsburg, VA, peacefully passed away on December 29, 2020, after a brief illness. He was born April 2, 1935, in Winston-Salem, NC, and was a Virginia Peninsula resident for most of his life.

Grady bravely served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War with duty stations in Korea, Japan, and stateside, before spending time in the reserves. His service continued as a lifetime member of the Air Force Association, a former member of the VFW Post 4991 Warwick, VA, a rated pilot and 2nd Lieutenant in the Civil Air Patrol specializing in search and rescue missions.

He attended Warwick High School and Upper Iowa University where his academic accolades were lengthy. While holding a seat on The Board of Trustees at UIU, he was chosen to present the graduation commencement speech in 1998. Furthermore, his alma mater recognized him with the coveted Entrepreneur Award, a rare distinction presented to just three graduates in school history. During his lifelong pursuit of continuing education, he studied at the University of Georgia, Indiana University Management Institute, and The College of William and Mary.

As a dedicated supporter of local law enforcement, he chose to pursue his passion and enroll in the Central Police Training School and eventually served as a City of Warwick Virginia Police Officer. Upon the 1958 consolidation of Newport News and Warwick, he continued his service with the Newport News Police Department. Following his law enforcement career, he embarked on the credit reporting/accounts management service business. He served in various management positions in the credit industry for over 60 years, including Liberty Loan Corporation as a supervisor of numerous regions in Virginia and Maryland, and Rices Nachman’s Department Store as their corporate credit manager. He was the Chairman of the Board and CEO of Equidata, Inc., a national client-based credit bureau & accounts management service company headquartered in Newport News until his retirement.

He was a co-founder and former director of Peninsula Crime Line (now Virginia Peninsula Crime Stoppers) for 35 years, and in 2016 was presented with their Fred Kern Meritorious Service Award.

He supported the causes of many organizations, especially those that positively benefited the lives of others. He volunteered his time and served as President and board member of both the Peninsula Retail Merchants Association (PRMA) and the Associated Credit Bureaus (both national and statewide). As a certified Consumer Credit Executive and a Certified Credit Bureau Executive, he held a dual certification that was not only rare but highly coveted within his industry. The pinnacle of his professional career came when he was presented with the Mayoral Proclamation for his and his business’s contributions to the community over his 60-year career.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George M. and Pauline Hudson Blaylock.

He is survived by his wife of 62 years; Nancy Berryman Blaylock; two daughters, Caroline Elizabeth Cucuel (Tom), and Stephanie Dawn Grogan (Mike); five wonderful granddaughters who he dearly loved, Samantha and Heather Cucuel, Nicole, Ashlyn, and Savanna Grogan; his sisters Colleen B. Gray of Virginia Beach, Jane Haynie Meadows of Winter Haven, Florida; many nieces and nephews; and, of course, his dog Bear.

Grady was a devoted husband, father, and granddad. Family was the joy of his life, and spending time together with his children and grandchildren was always a special occasion. Known as Mr. B to many, he was a people person who cared for others, never met a stranger, and always had time to listen or share a story with new and old friends.
Funeral services will be held at Peninsula Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 6, at 2:00 p.m. Please see www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video for live-streaming. Burial will follow the service at Peninsula Memorial Park, with full military honors. COVID restrictions will be followed, including wearing facial masks and social distancing.
Grady requested donations be made to Virginia Peninsula Crime Stoppers, Inc., PO Box 12111, Newport News, VA 23601.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Josie Todd Gurganus

Josie Todd Gurganus, 75, passed away on Monday, December 28, 2020.  She was a resident of Hampton and had been a Registered Nurse since 1989.

Josie was a member of Parkview Church of God, member of the Christian Woman’s Group – Abiding In the Vine Family Life Ministries “John 15:5” and a member of the Tuesday Quilting Group of the Church of the Nazarene.  Josie also enjoyed traveling.

Josie is survived by two sons, Trey Gurganus and Joseph T. Gurganus (Khristi); four grandchildren, Macy, Joey, Jessica, Tyler; one great-grandchild, Emma; two brothers, Jim Todd and Thomas Todd; sister, Sallie Starr; and several nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to visit Peninsula Funeral Home to sign the register book and pay respects while Josie lies in state on Saturday, January 2, 2021, from 10:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Friends may participate in services by viewing the live streaming presentation beginning at 1:45 p.m., Sunday, January 3, 2021.  Please see www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video for live-streaming.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Abiding in the Vine Family Life Ministries, https://abivfamilylife.com/ or Parkview Church of God, 1116 Briarfield Rd, Newport News, VA 23605, https://www.parkviewcog.org.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, Inc., 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Richard A. Brown

Richard A. Brown, 64, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 23rd, 2020. Rick was a veteran of the US Army and he was also employed at Newport News Shipbuilding for 12 years. For the last 30 years, he was an owner/operator and company truck driver.

Rick is survived by his wife of 34 years, Joann (Newport News), his son Shawn, daughter-in-law Cecily, granddaughter Kendall (Chesapeake), his son Dylan (Newport News), daughter Rebecca, son-in-law Chris, granddaughters Elizab eth, Victoria, grandson Bradley (South Dakota), his brother, Tom, sister-in­ law, Tricia, and nephews, Sean and Marty (Massachusetts).

You could usually hear Rick coming before you saw him . Whether it was his big red truck getting home or leaving to go back on the road or his booming voice as he walked in a room, you knew who it was. His big personality was nothing compared to his heart. He loved being from Boston. He loved to bust a move on the dance floor. He loved a glass of Me riot {with ice cubes, of course). He loved a get together with neighborhood friends (but only until he was tired, and then he would “be right back”). Most of all though, he loved his family. The Rick sized hole that has been left in the heart s of those who knew him is a big one and his memory will live on with all who loved him.

A celebration of life will be held on January 3^rd from 2:00 – 4:00 pm, for people to stop by to offer support to the family and perhaps share some favorite memories with them.

Due to COVID restrictions, the funeral service will be a private event held on January 5th, at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, VA.

Arrangements are being provided by Peninsula Funeral Home in Newport News, VA

Margaret Tallon Parker

Margaret Tallon Parker died peacefully at her home in Yorktown on December 25, 2020, suffering from the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s Disease.

She was born September 14, 1948 in Chelan, WA, to Leslie and June Tallon. She grew up in and around various communities in the eastern Cascades Mountains. Her fondest childhood memories were in Holden with her sisters. In 1964, her father passed away and her mother moved the family to Seattle to raise 4 children. She graduated high school, attended community college, and worked for Yellow Pages for a few years, where she was known as ‘The Whip’ for getting her co-workers motivated.

In 1969, she met a young sailor assigned to USS Seattle who would change her life forever. She married ‘Skip’ Parker on Valentine’s Day, 1970, and said goodbye to the west coast forever. She worked briefly for Gwaltney’s in Smithfield as a lab technician. In later years she worked for the Naval Mine Warfare Engineering Activity in Yorktown and finally at the Social Security Administration in Newport News. She retired in 2010.

Margaret is survived by her husband, Clifford ‘Skip’ Parker, their daughter Leslie Mastropaolo and her husband, Kevin, and grandchildren Megan, Jillian, and Nicholas; their son Cliff and his wife Elizabeth, and grandchildren Logan and Lilliana and Marley; her sister Susan and her husband, Clark of Bonney Lake, WA; and her sister Kathy and her husband, Gary of Modesto, CA.

Margaret’s family would like to express their most sincere appreciation to our Riverside Hospice family for their continuing love and support and especially Dannielle, Heather and Shanelle. The loving care provided by these earthly angels is best described by the following:

What we do for ourselves dies with us
What we do for others remains and is immortal

Due to the Covid-19 restrictions a memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to:

Riverside Hospice

12420 Warwick Boulevard, Suite 6e

Newport News, VA 23606

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Johnny Robertson Whitmore

Johnny Robertson Whitmore, 73, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 23,2020. He was born in Lynchburg, VA and raised in Newport News, then moved to Carrollton where he has resided for the past 34 years. Johnny retired from Newport News Shipbuilding, where he was proud to have been the first person to test and operate the 900-ton crane in 1974, the largest Gantry crane in the country at the time.

Johnny was a loving husband and best friend to Debra. They did everything together. Johnny- I Love You!  Johnny was full of life and always doing something – working out at the YMCA, going out on his boat, spending time with his animals, playing cornhole, and spending time with family and friends. Johnny loved his whole family and friends dearly. He faithfully attended Faith Free Will Baptist Church and enjoyed spending time with his church family.

Johnny was preceded in death by his mother, Carrie Lee Whitmore and father, David Walter Whitmore, Sr. He leaves to cherish his loving memories to his wife of 35 years, Debra; his children, Ashley Whitmore, John C. Whitmore (Kathy), Shannon Hatcher, and Clinton Edwards; sister, Martha McCoy (David); brother, David Whitmore (Jeannie); five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Due to COVID restrictions the service will be private. The service will be streamed live on the Faith Free Will Baptist Church in Carrollton, VA Facebook’s page at “faithfwb” on December 31 at 12:30 p.m.

If Johnny were able to leave some last words, he would tell us all to “Get over yourselves!”.

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 1144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Veronica Catherine Gray

Veronica Catherine Gray passed away on Friday, December 25, 2020.  She was a native of Saintes, France and a resident of the Peninsula for over 18 years.  Veronica was very active in the Art community and was an independent artist focusing on acrylic paints.  She was an active member of Calvary Reformed Presbyterian Church.

 

Veronica was preceded in death by her father, Michal Kedzierski.  She is survived by her husband of 29 years, Dale Gray; son, Max Gray of Rosamond, CA; two grandchildren, Krista and Mason; and a host of friends and church family.  Veronica was an animal lover and she leaves behind her cat, Sterling.

 

A funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 31 at Calvary Reformed Presbyterian Church, with interment to follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.  Facial masks and social distancing will be required.

 

Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.

Sandra Lee White Hicks

Sandra Lee White Hicks, 81, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on December 22, 2020. She was born to the late Sanford and Elsie White in Hampton, Virginia on March 11, 1939, and lived her entire life in Hampton.

 

Sandra retired from Newport News Shipbuilding as a file clerk. She loved the churches she attended and served each faithfully as a children’s Sunday School teacher and devoted choir member. Those churches she loved and served were Wythe Parkway Baptist, Big Bethel Baptist, Deer Park Baptist, and most recently, Liberty Baptist.

 

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 63 years, George Hicks, and her parents.  Those left to cherish her memory are daughter, Darlene Ruzic (Fairfax VA); sons, Rev. Eddie Hicks and wife Pam (Mooresville NC) and Mark Hicks and wife Karen (Newnan GA); grandchildren, Austin Ruzic, Jesse Ruzic (Olivia), Taylor Hicks (Cassie), Ashton Hicks, Perry Hicks, and Nick Hicks; great-grandchildren, Jack and Archer Ruzic; sisters, Joyce Bankett (Jimmy) and Betty Cain; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 

 A Celebration of Life service will be shared Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at 11:30 a.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., in Newport News, with the Rev. Joe Hunt officiating. Please see www.peninsulafuneralhome.com/video for live-streaming.  Burial will follow immediately at Peninsula Memorial Park.  Facial masks and social distancing will be required.