Like a silent ship that passes in the night, Cornelius Byrd Courtney, Jr., 85, died peacefully, Thursday, April 1, 2021. A lifelong resident of Newport News, Dr. Courtney was a proud graduate from Duke University. He earned his medical degree in general and vascular surgery from the Medical College of Virginia School of Medicine. After an internship, he spent five years in general surgery residency under the guidance of Dr. David Hume, completing his surgical training at MCV in 1966. He served his country as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force before establishing his medical practice for over 27 years in Newport News.

Dr. Courtney, a devoted and conscientious surgeon, helped many patients in his community. He was a former President of Riverside Regional Medical Center general staff and Vice President of the Riverside surgical staff, a former President of the Newport News Medical Society and former President of the James River Country Club. During his professional career, he was an active member of both the American Medical and Southern Medical Associations, the Humera Surgical Society, the American College of Surgeons, a delegate for the State Medical Society and diplomate from the American Board of Surgery.

Dr. Courtney was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Cornelius Byrd Courtney, Genevieve Dellinger Courtney Buckles and his sister, Genevieve Courtney Ames. Survivors include his wife of 56 years, Faye, daughter, Christy Hood (David), two grandchildren, two nieces and a nephew.

He was laid to rest at Peninsula Memorial Park in Newport News. No memorial per his wishes.

Expressions of sympathy maybe be made to the charity of your choice. Arrangements were provided by Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.