.Lucy “Bessie/Granny” Dudley Seward, 96, of Newport News, passed away peacefully at home on April 26, 2021.  She was born in Mecklenburg, NC on June 7, 1924, but made Newport News her home.  Bessie was a homemaker, dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother.  Her favorite pastimes included gardening, raking leaves, and ironing.  She was a devoted Christian and a member of Orcutt Baptist Church in Newport News.

Bessie was preceded in death by her loving husband, George W. Seward, Jr.; parents, Gilbert W. Dudley and Lucy Elizabeth Dudley; brother, Gilbert Dudley; and sisters, Ella Fountain and Rosalene Offerman.  She is survived by her son, George W. Seward, III; daughter, Linda S. Vinyard and son-in-law, Paul Vinyard; granddaughter, Stacey L. Neathery and her husband, Nick Crutchfield; her friend and loving caregiver, Tina Hart Fussell; and many friends.

A special thanks to the Sentara Hospice, especially Amanda.  

A graveside service will be held Friday, May 7, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. at Peninsula Memorial Park.

Guests are required to wear masks and keep their social distancing.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Bessie’s memory may be made to PAWS – Poquoson Animal Welfare Sanctuary, 181 Messick Rd., Poquoson, VA 23662.

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