Mildred B. Abney
CHESAPEAKE -- Mildred Bell Abney of the 700 block of Rivercreek Drive died Jan. 24, 2001. Born in Norfolk County, Mrs. Abney was an employee of White Tower Restaurant. She was a member of Caanan Baptist Church, Chesapeake, where she served on the Deaconess Board and was a member of the choir.
The widow of Horace A. Abney, she is survived by a daughter, Rhonda S. Barnes and husband, Marvin, of Portsmouth; a son, Ray Anthony Sheppard and wife, Wanda, of Chesapeake; two sisters, Josephine Neal and Shirley Holley; a brother, Willie Nathan Bell, all of Chesapeake; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of aunts, uncles, in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and many friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Cora Lee Blanchard Bell and Nathan Bell.
A funeral will be held at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Caanan Baptist Church, Chesapeake, by Dr. Theodore Little, with burial in Roosevelt Memorial Park, Chesapeake. Family and friends will assemble at 700 Rivercreek Drive one hour prior to the service for the procession. Viewing will be Saturday at noon to the hour of the service at the church. Metropolitan Funeral Service, Berkley Avenue Chapel, is handling arrangements.
John A. Jackson II
CHESAPEAKE -- On the 23rd of January, John Albert Jackson, affectionately known as "Pop," "Johnnie La," "Papa" and "Mr. J.," entered into eternal rest as quietly and as peacefully as he lived, in the city of Chesapeake.
Mr. Jackson was a native of Washington, D.C. He and his wife, the late Almarian S. Jackson, relocated in 1995 to live with their son and daughter-in-law, Vashon and Beverly Jackson, in the city of Chesapeake. He was 94 years of age. He was born Sept. 29, 1906, in the city of Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late John and Addie L. Jackson. Mr. Jackson was a proud military veteran of World War II and was a meat department manager for a national grocery chain in the metropolitan area of Washington, D.C., for over 25 years.
He is survived by a daughter and son-in-law, Alecia Velma C. and Malik Thompson of Riverdale, Md.; a son and daughter-in-law, Vashon and Beverly Jackson; five granddaughters and a grandson.
The family will receive family and friends at the home of his son, 2105 Hollins Court, Chesapeake. The funeral will be held at noon Saturday at New Mount Zion, Church of God Holiness, 1042 Philpotts Road in Norfolk with Elder James A. Wilson as officiant. Interment will be at Quantico Military Cemetery. The funeral procession will assemble at his son's residence one hour prior to the funeral. Viewing will be held today from 2 to 8 p.m. at Riddick Funeral Service.
Mr. Jackson was a generous and independent person until the end. He will be sorely missed by his friends and family in Washington and his adopted home of Chesapeake.
Joshua I. Broomfield
CHESAPEAKE -- Joshua Isaiah Broomfield, 75, of the 800 block of Spruce Forest Court, died Jan. 17, 2001.
The funeral service will be conducted at 1 p.m. today by Pastor James Watkins at Cedar Road Assembly of God, 916 Cedar Road, Chesapeake. Interment will follow in Chesapeake Memorial Gardens. Oman Funeral Home, Chesapeake, is in charge.
Mary Agnes Davenport
CHESAPEAKE -- Mary Agnes Davenport, 70, of the 3500 block of Executive Center Dr., went to be with the Lord on Jan. 24, 2001, in her residence. She was born in Columbia, N.C., and was the widow of William T. Davenport.
Survivors include three daughters, Linda K. Sharpe and husband, Bobby, of Portsmouth, Karen A. Peek and husband, Ronald, Sherry F. Wharam and husband, Dale, all of Chesapeake; two sons, Marvin T. Davenport and Jerry R. Davenport, both of Portsmouth; two sisters, Statha Toxey of Shiloh, N.C. and Peggy Meekins of South Mills, N.C.; a brother, Douglas Sawyer of Chesapeake; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
A funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday in Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel, by Dr. Mel Kunkle. Burial will be in Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 7 to 9 p.m. today and at other times at 2501 West Bugle Drive, Chesapeake.
Robert E. Parker Jr.
CHESAPEAKE -- Robert E. Parker Jr., 52, of the 4100 block of 4th. St., died Jan. 23, 2001, at a local hospital.
A native of Norfolk, he was a truck driver with Hertz Equipment Rental and a member of Agape Ministries Church.
Survivors include his wife, Emily L. Parker; a daughter, Stephanie Hanna of Virginia Beach; two sons, Robert C. Parker and James W. Lupton, both of Chesapeake; a sister, Sharon Stewart of Florida; two grandchildren, Taylor Parker and J.R. Hanna; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. today at Colonial Grove Memorial Park with the Rev. Pete W. Taylor officiating.
J. Roy Cooper
NORFOLK -- John Roy Cooper, 84, of Virginia Beach Estates, died Jan. 25, 2001, in his residence.
Mr. Cooper was a native of Athens, Ga., and was a Navy veteran of WWII. He was a longtime member of First Christian Church in Norfolk. He was a retired sales manager for Norfolk Paint and was the Wesleymen Class Pianist Emeritus at Epworth United Methodist Church for 35 years.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 63 years, Minnie A. "Kat" Cooper of Norfolk; his daughter, Patricia Martin of Oregon; three granddaughters; and a host of nieces and nephews, brothers- and sisters-in-law.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday at First Christian Church, 1600 Colonial Ave., Norfolk, VA 23517, by Dr. Lane Hurley. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First Christian Church. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments, Norfolk Chapel, is handling arrangements.
Richard W. Hassell
NORFOLK -- One of the greatest examples of the "Good Samaritan" died Jan. 20, 2001, at the age of 84.
Richard W. Hassell of the 5900 block of Poplar Hall Drive attended First Baptist Church of Norfolk.
He was known throughout the Tidewater/Hampton Roads area for the one-man ministry he founded in 1964 named "Christian Action". He began giving of himself to help others in 1939 when he left the service of the late Tex Ritter and returned to Norfolk to further the charitable works of his mother, Sophie, who ran a soup kitchen during the Depression.
As a result of his employment with Mr. Ritter, he was asked to appear in some of Hollywood's most memorable movies such as "Gone With the Wind", "Show Boat", "The Ten Commandments", and a series of Tarzan, Gary Cooper, and John Wayne features.
In 1964, he granted his Mother's dying request by promising to carry on her work. He founded "Christian Action" and began helping the elderly, the poor and hungry, and those devastated by fire and other disasters. He did all of this from his home with a donated van and funded by his Social Security check. His efforts were soon recognized by area businessmen and residents who began donating food, clothing, and funds to help his efforts.
In 1988, he started annual holiday dinners at the Open Door Chapel, providing meals and bus service for the hungry, homeless, and lonely on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Thousands were ministered to physically and spiritually by all of those who volunteered their time at these events.
Richard Hassell had appeared on NBC's Nightly News program and had been recognized by the Virginia General Assembly for his tireless efforts.
In 1990, he was included in a fourth grade textbook section titled "Building Citizenship" (about people who make a difference) published by McMillian/McGraw-Hill School Publishing Co. of New York. And, in 1989, he was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
He had received several awards for his contributions to the community and to mankind. One such award was the Vivian Carter Mason Meritorius Service Award, presented by the Urban League of Hampton Roads in 1991. He never arrived the night the presentation was to be made -- he stopped to help victims of a house fire instead. This illustrates the character of the man.
Mr. Hassell gained the love, respect, and admiration of thousands who had been touched by his kindheartedness. Always ready with an encouraging word, a warm smile, and a sincere desire to help his fellow man, Richard knew no lines of segregation. He never looked for fame or glory...he insisted that he was only doing the work that God had called us all to do!
His Christ-like existence served as a testimony that defines "Christian Action". He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.
He was predeceased by his wife, Winnie Mae Anthony Hassell. He is survived by a daughter, Patricia Stewart; son-in-law, Louis Stewart; brother, George Hassell; three grandchildren, Angela Pitts, Lisa Mitchell and Charles Crenshaw; five great-grandsons all of Norfolk; six nieces; two nephews; a host of cousins; and special friends Gardner King, Joe Flanigan, Linda Jenkins, and Wendy Howard.
The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. today in First Baptist Church of Norfolk, Kempsville Road, by Pastor Dr. John Powers, followed by a graveside service at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens. Hale Funeral Home, Norfolk, is handling arrangements. Memorial donations may be made to Attn: Jim Boyd, 1 Commercial Place, Suite 405, Norfolk, VA 23510; Phone 757-622-3611.
Arthur T. Johnson III
NORFOLK -- Arthur Thomas Johnson III, 74, of the 500 block of W. 38th St., passed quietly and peacefully into eternal rest on Jan. 24, 2001, in Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. He was a native of Norfolk and the son of the late Arthur T. Jr. and Geraldine Wilson Johnson. He was the husband of Marion Ruth Johnson.
Mr. Johnson retired as a foreman from the Norfolk Naval Supply Center after 34 years of service. After his civil service retirement, Mr. Johnson drove the school bus for St. Mary's Academy. He was a member of the Basilica of St. Mary's of the Immaculate Conception and was a former chairperson of the Justice and Peace Committee. Mr. Johnson also volunteered his time working with Haitian and Vietnam refugees entering the United States. He attended St. Joseph's Catholic School and Norfolk Division of Virginia State College. Mr. Johnson was a 33rd degree Mason and a member of Improved 192 Masonic Lodge, Alpha and Omega Consistory and Arabia Temple No. 12. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.
Mr. Johnson leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 54 years, Marion Ruth Johnson of the home; a daughter, Michele J. Logan and husband, Sammie; four sons, Arthur Graige Johnson and wife, Patsy, Michael Johnson and wife, Phyllis, Dwight R. Johnson and wife, Mable, and Kevin (Jimmy) Johnson. He also leaves seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by a sister, Virginia Jester.
A funeral will be held at noon Saturday at the Basilica of St. Mary's of the Immaculate Conception with the Rev. Fr. John Dorgan officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Viewing will be today from 2 to 8 p.m. at Riddick Funeral Service where a Christian wake will be at 7 p.m.
Richard H. Bonner Jr.
NORFOLK -- Richard Horace Bonner Jr., 65, of the 2800 block of Keller Ave., died Jan. 20, 2001, at home.
A native of Norfolk, he retired 10 years ago after working for 30 years for the City of Norfolk as a sanitation worker. He was a member of St. Mark R.Z.U.A. Church, Norfolk, the Senior Male Usher Board, and Sylvia Brown Missionary Circle.
Survivors include three sisters, Lillie Jones of Norfolk, Dorothy Waddy and Lucy Jean Thomas, both of Baltimore; two brothers, Howard Earl Bonner and Vernon C. Bonner, both of Norfolk; special niece, Cynthia Petion; stepdaughter, Dorothea Phillips; and a host of relatives and friends.
A funeral will be at noon Saturday in St. Mark R.Z.U.A. Church, Norfolk, with the Rev. Dr. Alvin Ben Thomas officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. The remains will rest in the church from 10:30 a.m. until the hour of service. Hale Funeral Home is in charge.
Caleb T. Saunders
NORFOLK -- Dr. Caleb Thomas Saunders, 87, passed away in a local hospital on Jan. 19, 2001. He was born in Norfolk and was a Baptist. Dr. Saunders was preceded in death by his father, Caleb Timothy Saunders and his mother, Lydia Barrett Saunders.
After graduating from Maury High School, Dr. Saunders owned and operated a gymnasium in Norfolk and during that time went to New York City where he was trained in body building by the late Tony Sansone. Dr. Saunders was featured on the cover of Health and Strength magazine and contributed articles to the magazine on the subject of body building.
He attended Nashville College of Naturopathic Medicine in Nashville, Tenn., and in 1941 graduated cum laude from the National College of Chiropractic in Chicago, Ill. After graduation, he served in the South Pacific with the U.S. Army's 7th Evacuation Hospital and returned three years later to practice his profession in the Ward's Corner area for the next 45 years. In 1948, Dr. Saunders was appointed to the Virginia Board of Medical Examiners by then Governor William M. Tuck.
He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Margaret H. "Margie" Saunders; and several cousins.
A visitation will be held at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Bayside Chapel, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Burial will be private and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice.
Ezekiel I. Phyall
PORTSMOUTH -- Ezekiel I. Phyall, 81, of the 2500 block of Staunton Ave., died Jan. 22, 2001, in Maryview Medical Center, Portsmouth.
Born in Jamestown, S.C., Mr. Phyall was a cab driver for Safeway Cab Co. for 48 years and retired as an ammunition technician with Naval Ammunition Depot after 35 years. He was a member and usher of Ebenezer Baptist Church, Portsmouth, participated in the mid-week Prayer & Bible Study, and was a lover of the 7 a.m. Worship Service. He was also a member of the NAACP, participated in community civic meetings, and was a member of the Neighborhood Watch. He was a U.S. Army veteran.
He is survived by his wife, Della R. Phyall; three daughters, Army Lt. Col. Gertdell Phyall-Colton of Augusta, Ga., Dorita A.P. Flemister of Oxnard, Calif., and Marie Sylvia Phyall-Brown of Willingboro, N.J.; three sons, John David Phyall of Willingboro, Michael Anthony Phyall of Denton, Texas, and Vann Wallace Phyall of Portsmouth; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws and friends.
A funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Portsmouth, by the Rev. Joe B. Fleming and Elder Thomas W. Goodwyn. Burial will be in Roosevelt Memorial Park, Chesapeake. Viewing at Corprew Funeral Home will begin at 11 a.m. today, where the family will be from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The body will be taken to the church at 10 a.m. Saturday.
James S. Haughton Sr.
PORTSMOUTH -- James S. Haughton Sr., 94, received his heavenly award on Tuesday morning, Jan. 23, 2001, in Maryview Medical Center.
Born in Murfreesboro, N.C., in 1906, he completed study at St. Emmas Academy in 1925. He was owner-manager of Boone Seafood Market in Portsmouth and a Navy-yard employee for 23 years. Among other civic and church related groups in which he gave devoted services, Ben Long, as he was known by close friends, was an active member of the Men of Zion. He was a U.S. Army veteran.
In the International Food Service Executive's Association for over 25 years, he traveled throughout the U.S. on personal and business excursions. He enjoyed membership in The Nocturnal Adoration, Holy Angel's Church. School children of Our Lady of Victory knew Ben Long as an inspirational role model and trusted friend.
Married to Kate Boone Haughton for 54 years, their children are Muriel Kate Bennett of Mitchellville, Md., and James (Ron) S. Haughton Jr.; grandchildren include Duane Fisher and wife, Jacqueline, of Portsmouth, Donald Haughton Jr. of Chicago, Ill., and Gabriell Thomas of Los Angeles; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins including E.G. "Tip" Corprew Jr. and Dr. W.H. Harris of Portsmouth; in-laws and friends. He was predeceased by a son, Donald Haughton Sr.
A funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Paul Catholic Church, Portsmouth, 518 High Street, by the Rev. Joseph S. Slovik, pastor. Burial, with military honors, will be in Woodlawn Memorial Gardens, Norfolk. Viewing at Corprew Funeral Home will begin at 11 a.m. today where the family will be from 6 to 7 p.m. The body will be taken to the church prior to the funeral service. Family and friends will assemble at his home, 23 Pennock St., for the funeral procession and at Zion Baptist Church social hall, Portsmouth, after the funeral. Contributions may be made to St. Paul's Catholic Church building fund.
Charles O. Wilson Jr.
PORTSMOUTH -- Charles O. Wilson Jr., 54, departed this Life for his eternal rest on Jan. 20, 2001, at Maryview Medical Center. He was employed at Ghent Arms Retirement Home as the dietary director.
He is survived by his loving and devoted fiancee, Betty Chisman; two daughters, Scherrie Chisman and Crystal Penrose; stepdaughter, Felicia Wilson; three grandchildren, a stepgranddaughter, his stepmother, three brothers and three sisters.
A funeral will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday at New First Baptist Church Taylorsville, Portsmouth, by the Rev. James Woods. Viewing will begin at 11 a.m. today at Corprew Funeral Homewhere the family will be from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. Burial will be in Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, Portsmouth. The body will be taken to the church at 10 a.m. Saturday. The family will be at 230 Elm Ave., Portsmouth, and will assemble there at noon for the funeral procession.
Helen A. Martens
VIRGINIA BEACH -- Helen Virginia Ashley Martens, 88, died Jan. 24, 2001, in Norfolk.
A native of Norfolk she was the widow of Leon Gustave Martens and had retired from Smith and Weltons Department Store as an accountant after 20 years of service. Mrs. Martens was a member of Bayside Baptist Church, Ruth Bible Class, Little Creek Womens Club, V.F.W. Post 392 Ladies Auxiliary in Virginia Beach and the Senior Pep Club.
Survivors include her daughter, Brenda Ann DeMouLin of Edenton, N.C.; grandchildren, Amy, Chris and Todd Flowers, Jimmy and Michael Martens, Susan Jarvis, Diane Meredith and Laura Jehoich; 13 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son, Linwood A. Martens.
A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in Rosewood Memorial Park. Family will be at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Bayside Chapel, from 6 to 8 p.m. today.
Nilah Mae Medlock
VIRGINIA BEACH -- Nilah Mae Medlock, 73, a resident of Williamsburg since 1970 and formerly of Aurora, Ind., died Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2001.
She was preceded in death by two children, Gary Lee Rozin and Lisa Ann Sullivan and is survived by her children, Lynn Holtegel of Aurora, Janice Smith of Virginia Beach and Keith Rozin of Lebanon, Mo.; three sisters, Juanita Levi of Vevay, Ind., Joann Knight of Aurora and Marilyn DiPierro of Newport News; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
The family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. today at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Road, Williamsburg. A graveside service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at Williamsburg Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to James City Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 321, Toano, VA 23168.
Ellen A. Richardson
VIRGINIA BEACH -- Ellen Bowie Addison Richardson, 76, died peacefully in her home surrounded by her children on Jan. 24, 2001. She was the daughter of the late French Bowie Addison and Josephine Roberts Bowie Addison.
She was born in Baltimore, Md., and spent her childhood at "Boxley" in Bowie, Md., and was educated at the Stuart Hall School in Staunton, Va. After making her Debut into Society in Baltimore, she moved to Hampton, Va. and worked at the research library at NASA, Langley. She lived for 48 years in Virginia Beach and was an active member of the Junior League of Hampton Roads, a member of Princess Anne Country Club and such organizations as the Virginia Beach Hospital Auxiliary, the Virginia Beach Lifesaving Museum, and the Virginia Marine Science Museum. She worked part-time as a real estate agent in her early years in Virginia Beach followed by many years in the interior design office of Sloan DeWeese Interiors. She was known for her wit, hospitality, and generosity to all who knew her and her legendary parties and her love of travel.
She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Henry Harwood Richardson Jr. and her granddaughter, Rachel Adams.
She is survived by her six children, Ellen Bowie Richardson, Elizabeth Richardson Thomas, Cary Richardson Boykin and her husband, Kimball, Henry Harwood Richardson III and his wife, Frances, Bowie Addison Richardson and his wife, Kristine, and Leonard Cornelius Richardson II and his wife, Michelle. Also surviving are her sister, Josephine Addison Gamble and her daughter, French Wallop; her brother-in-law, Leonard Cornelius Richardson; a niece, Anne Sweetman; a nephew, Robert Sherman and their families; her eleven grandchildren, Alexandra and Henry Richardson, Addison and Lisa Richardson, Cary and Lee Thomas, Robert, Carter and Elizabeth Boykin, and Ashley and Leonard Richardson. We will all miss her tremendously as will her very special friends, Virginia Harschutz, Dixie Beckett, and Sloan DeWeese.
A church service will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, at Galilee Episcopal Church, by the Rev. Calvin G. Gardner.
The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 945, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, or charity of choice. H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Laskin Road Chapel, is in charge.
William L. Stallings Sr.
VIRGINIA BEACH -- William Lathan Stallings Sr., 68, of the 400 block of Ludwick Lane, died Jan. 24, 2001, in his residence. He was a native of Norfolk and had lived in Virginia Beach for the past 38 years, and was the loving husband of Judith Riddick Stallings.
He was retired from automotive services with the City of Virginia Beach, and was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Korean Conflict.
In addition to his loving wife, Judith, he is survived by two sons, Steven Keith Stallings of Tappahannock, Va., and William L. Stallings Jr. of South Mills, N.C.; one sister, Audrey S. Jones of Virginia Beach; and two grandchildren, Kurt A. Stallings and Stephanie A. Stallings, both of Tappahannock.
A graveside service will be conducted at 3 p.m. today in Rosewood Memorial Park by the Rev. Roger Gauthier. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Sentara Hospice Program, 535 Independence Parkway, Suite 200, Chesapeake, VA 23320. Kellum Funeral Home, Bonney Road, is in charge.
Linda N. Walker
VIRGINIA BEACH -- Linda Newton Gibson Walker, 86, died Jan. 25, 2001. A funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday in Smith & Williams Funeral Home, Kempsville Chapel.
Havanna G. Boone
SUFFOLK -- Havanna G. Boone, 82, of the 7100 block of Gates Road, died Jan. 24, 2001. A funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Stoney Branch Baptist Church, Gates, N.C. Hunter's Funeral Home, Ahoskie, N.C., is in charge.
Nancy J. Crocker
SUFFOLK -- Nancy J. Crocker, 87, of the 6700 block of Everets Road, died Jan. 22, 2001. A funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in the chapel of Crocker Funeral Home.
Lee Chandler
ATLANTIC -- Lee Chandler, 66, died Jan. 23, 2001. A funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday in St. John United Methodist Church, Atlantic.
Mildred T. Mapp
SALISBURY, Md. -- Mildred Trader Mapp, 82, formerly of Wachapreage, Va., died Jan. 20, 2001. A funeral will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in St. James A.M.E. Zion Methodist Church, Salisbury. Cooper & Humbles Funeral Co., Accomac, is in charge.
Marilyn R. Ulrich
EXMORE -- Marilyn Rita Ulrich, 64, died Jan. 23, 2001. A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in Nansemond-Suffolk Cemetery. Doughty Funeral Home, Exmore, is in charge.
Oscar R. Eason
SOUTH MILLS -- Oscar Raymond Eason, 87, of the 300 block of Horseshoe Road, died Jan. 25, 2001, at Albemarle Hospital. He was born in Perquimans County, N.C., son of the late William A. and Martha Ann Riddick Eason. He retired from the Norfolk Naval Air Station, was a Baptist, and a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army.
Survivors include two daughters, Martha Rae Eason Barco of Shawboro, N.C., and Myra Virginia Eason Eason of Elizabeth City, N.C.; a sister, Essie Mae Ewell of Portsmouth; a brother, Winfred Lloyd Eason of Chesapeake; two grandchildren, Danelle Barco of Columbia, N.C., and James Eason of Elizabeth City; and nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in West Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery by the Rev. F. Joe Griffith. The family will receive friends Saturday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Twiford Memorial Chapel, Elizabeth City, and at other times at the residence of Myra E. Eason, 1413 Turnpike Road, Elizabeth City.
Neal S. Geers
KITTY HAWK -- Neal Stephan Geers, 47, died Jan. 23, 2001, in Kitty Hawk. Mr. Geers was born in Leiden, Holland, and was a salesman with Midgett Auto Sales.
Mr. Geers was the son of Pieter and Martha Lubbers Geers of Virginia Beach and the husband of Sherry Munford Geers of Kitty Hawk. Besides his wife and parents, surviving are a son, Michael Geers of Norfolk and a daughter, India Muret of Kitty Hawk; and two brothers, Hans Geers and Rick Geers, both of Virginia Beach.
A memorial service will be held today at 2 p.m. in Twiford's Colony Chapel, Manteo, by the Rev. Bruce Warrington. In lieu of flowers, donations for medical expenses may be made to Sherry Geers, P.O. Box 771, Kitty Hawk, NC 27949.
Edna A. Hosick
GASTONIA -- Edna Atwood Hosick, 90, of the 1300 block of Robinwood Road, died Jan. 18, 2001, at Gaston Memorial Hospital.
Mrs. Hosick was a native of Virginia Beach, wife of the late Theodore R. Hosick, daughter of the late Henry Clay and Margaret Capps Hosick, sister of the late Ryland Atwood and Marion A. Cinex. She was a graduate of Longwood College and Sara Leigh Memorial Hospital School of Nursing, retired office manager for Pension Planners Insurance Company, Member of First United Methodist Church, where she was past president of the Ladies UMW, Weslyan Service Guild past president and district secretary, Women's Society of Christian Service, Red Cross Ladies Auxiliary, Gaston Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and Four Seasons Garden Club.
Survivors include two sisters, Margaret A. Davis of Virginia Beach and Alice A. Rickman of Richmond; a brother, John E. Atwood of Chesapeake; and many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday in Charity United Methodist Church Cemetery with the Rev. Bob Cooper officiating. McLean Funeral Directors, Gastonia, is in charge. Smith & Williams Funeral Home is in charge of local arrangements.
Elizabeth C. Jernigan
MURFREESBORO -- Elizabeth Cromartie Jernigan, 53, of the 600 block of Spring Ave., died Jan. 25, 2001, in Roanoke Chowan Hospital, Ahoskie.
She was a native of Bladen County and later lived in Anson County. She was a graduate of East Carolina University. After 18 years as a social worker with the Hertford County Social Services, she worked for 12 years as a case manager in the developmental disability program at Roanoke Chowan Mental Health Services until her retirement. Following her retirement, Mrs. Jernigan worked part-time as a program supervisor for Healthcare Facilities of Windsor. She was a member of Early's Baptist Church, where she served as pianist, organist and assistant Sunday School teacher for many years. Liz was a former member of the Murfreesboro Rescue Squad and a Mary Kay consultant for six years.
Survivors include one son, William R. "Will" Jernigan, of the home; a niece and nephew and one great-niece. She was also survived by an aunt, an uncle and special friend, Connie Musha.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday in Garrett Funeral Home, Ahoskie, by the Rev. Ronald McSwain and the Rev. Thomas Caulkins. The family will receive friends at her home, 608 Spring Ave., from 7 to 9 p.m. today and at the funeral home following the service. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 1021B Red Banks Road, Greenville, NC 27858.
Helen R. Leggett
BEAR GRASS -- Helen Rogers Leggett, 90, died Jan. 24, 2001. A funeral will be at 11 a.m. today at Martin Memorial Gardens. Biggs Funeral Home, Williamston, is in charge.
Estella E. Nowell
HERTFORD -- Estella Eason Nowell, 90, died Jan. 22, 2001. A funeral will be at 1 p.m. Saturday at Joppa Missionary Baptist Church, Hobbsville, N.C. Stallings Memorial Chapel, Hertford, is in charge.
Floyd U. Pledger Jr.
COLUMBIA -- Floyd Ulysses Pledger Jr., 39, of Route 2, died Jan. 23, 2001. A funeral will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at Alligator Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Rowsom Funeral Home is in charge.
Vera Mae S. Tatem
HERTFORD -- Vera Mae Stone Tatem, 72, died Jan. 24, 2001. She was born Jan. 27, 1928, in Berkley, Mich., to the late Hurbert and Helen Barry Tatem.
Mrs. Tatem was known to be and avid reader. She was predeceased by her husband Wilson P. Tatem and her daughter, Linda Mae Tatem.
She is survived by two daughters, Sandra Lynn Tatem of Chesapeake and Barbara Ann Tatem of Hertford, N.C.; four sons, Wilson Van Tatem of Currituck, N.C., Ronald P. Tatem and Roger Lee Tatem, both of Chesapeake, and David Michael Tatem of Tyner, N.C.; one sister, Frances Miller of Chesapeake; two brothers, Louie Stone and Ernest Van Stone, both of Tyner; 11 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
A graveside service will be at 2 p.m. Sunday in Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery by the Rev. Johnnie McDonald. The family will receive friends at Twiford Funeral Home, Chesapeake, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. today.
Frank Williams
RICH SQUARE -- Frank Williams, 78, died Jan. 20, 2001. A funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at Chapel Hill Baptist Church, Rich Square. Hunter's Funeral Home, Ahoskie, is in charge.
Donald G. Hile
GLOUCESTER -- Donald Glenn Hile, 73, went home to be with the Lord, and to be forever reunited with his beloved wife, Gladys, on Jan. 21, 2001. He will be forever remembered for his love of family and persons whose path he crossed. As a father, grandfather and friend, he always provided a warm and loving home. He had a special place in his heart for children, animals and flowers. He was the founder and proprietor of Hile's Nursery which he started in 1975. He served many loyal clients who often became his friend.
Survivors include two daughters, Linda H. Schultz and husband, George, and Pat West and husband, J.T.; three sons, Glenn C. Hile and wife, Joyce, Leslie T. Hile and wife, Sharon, and Donald L. Hile and wife, Linda; a sister, Beverly Murray; a brother, Joseph Hile; father-in-law, Leonard Turner; nine grandchildren, Joshua and Lori Hanna, Daniel Hile, Alister Hile, Steve Schultz, Kate Schultz, Megan Hile, Scott Hile and Evan Hile; also two special neighbors, Hugh and Margaret Wyatt.
A funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, 2001, in Bellamy United Methodist Church, 4870 Chestnut Fork Road, Gloucester, by the Rev. Robert Woodfin. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at Hogg Funeral Home, Gloucester Point, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. today.
In his memory, memorial contributions may be made to Bellamy United Methodist Church, Attn: New Sign Fund, P.O. Box 907, Gloucester, VA. 23061.
A gathering of family and friends will be held immediately following the interment in the church social hall.
Esko E. Holt Jr.
PETERSBURG -- Esko Edward Holt Jr., 63, died Jan. 25, 2001. Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday in Waverly Cemetery. Purviance Funeral Home, Wakefield, is in charge.
Shirley May Gray
COLORADO -- Shirley May Gray, 77, died Jan. 17, 2001.
She was born Oct. 1, 1923, in South Norfolk, Va., and was married to Wesley Gray in 1940.
Mrs. Gray is survived by her daughters, Judy Downes of Colorado, Bonnie Schyma of Alabama, and Sharon Grandpre of Wyoming; two sisters; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by a son, Hal; her husband; a sister; and both parents.
The memorial service was in Colorado.
Jeffrey Miles
SMYRNA, Del. -- Jeffrey Miles, 32, died Jan. 23, 2001. A funeral will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in Unity Lutheran Church, 2801 E. Princess Anne Road, Norfolk. E.A. Hughes Funeral Home is in charge.
