Obituaries

Wilbur Ray Todd

Wilbur Ray Todd, 80, passed away peacefully at home on January 13, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born on February 4, 1943, in Wilmington, NC, to Furman and Inez Todd and raised in Loris, SC, along with his four siblings. At the age of 17, he moved to Virginia for work. In 1963, he became a professional firefighter with the City of Newport News. He eventually served as an instructor in the fire academy, retiring as a lieutenant after 37 ½ years of service. During his time in the fire department, Wilbur worked at Mountcastle Lumber Co. in Newport News and built the family home in York County.

 Wilbur is survived by his wife of 60 years, Shirl; his daughter, Katrina (Randy); his son, Ray (Wendy); his son, Kenny; and his grandchildren, Collin, Mallory, and Ryan. His sisters, Genice, Linda (James), and Pat, as well as nieces and nephews, also survived him.

 He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jackie.

As a devoted PaPa to his grandchildren, Wilbur spent countless hours at Chuck E. Cheese. He had near-perfect attendance at baseball and football games, cheer competitions, and dance recitals. His grandchildren will cherish those memories forever. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and tending to his garden. He also enjoyed many camping trips with his family to Myrtle Beach. Wilbur will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet nature, generosity, and respect for others. His legacy will continue to inspire and impact those privileged to know him.

A visitation will be held from 11 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, January 23, in the Chapel at Liberty Baptist, 1021 Big Bethel Road, Hampton, with a memorial service beginning at 1 pm. Burial will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Citizens Fire Academy Alumni Association of Newport News or Liberty Baptist Church.

13 Comments

    • Larry and Sophia Davis

      Shirl, please know our thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort are with you and the entire family. May you experience His continuous presence during this time. Blessings to each of you!

  1. Larry and Sophia Davis

    Shirl, please know our thoughts and prayers for peace and comfort are with you and the entire family. May you experience His continuous presence during this time. Blessings to each of you!

  2. Vicki Burton

    Shirl, my heart just went out to you when I heard of the loss of your husband. There are no words that can comfort right now, but know that there are many prayers of comfort being sent to our Lord for you and your family.

  3. Cindy

    Dear Shirl and family, we are very saddened to hear of Wilbur’s passing. He was a wonderful man, and helped many in his quiet manner. He meant much to mom and to all of us at home We saw him often coming to check on mom and her house throughout the years. She was so delighted when she started going to Liberty and seeing him sitting near her in the pews at church. I believe he was one of mom‘s first students she taught right out of college. Not sure what he called her, Aunt or teacher. We were all honored to have known him these many years, and are grateful for the blessing that he was to us and others. Love , Cindy and Doug

  4. Latia Dixon

    I’m so very sorry to hear of Wilbur’s passing. May you and your family find comfort in knowing that he is at peace and no longer suffering. Miss you and love you.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *