757.628.1000

Walter B. Bagby, Sr.


Sunrise: December 21, 1934

Sunset: February 19, 2021

“Lamentations 3: 20 – 26”
On Friday, February 19, 2021, our gracious and faithful God called the name of our loving husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend bad him COME to Him to received his promised eternal rest. In the morning, at 9:30am, Walter was transformed to the place reserved just for him.

Walter Barron Bagby, Sr., the third eldest of eight children, born to the union of the late Roland Vann and Pinkie Ann Bagby, was born on December 21, 1934 in Norfolk, VA.

Walter received his education in the Norfolk Public School System and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in the Class of 1952. He continued to be an active alumnus of the BTW high school association. With the unwavering support of his devoted Mother and the mentorship and assistance of his Pastor, Rev. C.E. Griffin of First Calvary Baptist Church, Walter enrolled in Shaw University in the fall of 1952.

At Shaw, Walter excelled not only in academics, but was often a featured soloist in the University Chorale Society (he served as its president in his senior year). As a freshman, he joined the newly established Wrestling Team and defeated every CIAA & non-conference opponent during the entire wrestling season.

He earned his undergraduate degree in Mathematics and attributes much of his sustenance and success at Shaw to Ms. Madelyn Watson, his English teacher, who was also his “Mother “away from home.

Following graduation from Shaw, Walt joined the United States Army where he served sixteen months of his two-year tour of duty in Korea. While in the Military, he taught Mathematics and English to enlisted and non-commissioned officers to prepare them from the GED test; along with commissioned officers, in the completion of two years of college through correspondences courses.

Following his discharge from the Army, Walt returned home and taught Mathematics at his alma mater, Booker T. Washington high School, for five years.

Walter married Dorethea Norman in August 1957. Their blissful 63 years of union blessed them with a wonderful son, Walter Barron “Lil Walt” Bagby, Jr. a loving and devoted daughter, Mercedes Bagby, a granddaughter, Alexis DeVose’, and a great-grandson, Qutrell Payton Jr.

Walter joined First Calvary Baptist Church as a young lad and, with his Mother and siblings. While attending services with his family, he became involved in the life of the church. Through the years, he was active in many facets of church life, including Sunday School Teacher, Deacon, Chancel Choir Member, and Chairman of the Constitution Revision Committee. Walter served ably and effectively in every ministry in which he participated.
While maintaining his membership and support at First Calvary, Walt also attended and contributed monthly to Grace Episcopal Church, The Historic First Baptist Church, and Mount Herman Baptist Church.

Walter Bagby had a thirst for higher education. His determination motivated him to matriculate at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana as well as George Washington University, in Washington, D.C. during summer months. His tenacity paid off and he subsequently earned his Master’s Degree from Hampton Institute (now Hampton University).
He began his career with the Federal Government in the Department of the Navy as a GS-9, working as a mathematics Instructor. His highest promotion was advancement to GS-15 before retiring in 1993. During employment, Walter Bagby Sr. received the Superior Civilian Award, which was the second highest award that a civilian could achieve at that time.
“Walt”, as most of his friends affectionately called him, was a well-rounded gentleman. One he committed to a task, organization, hobby, etc. gave fully of his time, talents, and treasures to ensure success and enjoyment for all.

He was a Sports Enthusiast; loved to attend and watch football and basketball games, track and field events. His greatest loved was GOLF and he played until he just could not.

The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Lambda Omega Chapter was another love of his life.

His personality and lifestyle exemplified the organization’s motto, “Friendship is Essential to the Soul”, and its “Cardinal Principles” of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, Uplift. He actively chaired the Chapter’s Talent Hunt Committee for many years and delighted in introducing youth to the basics in the game of Golf.

MUSIC AND SINGING were almost synonymous with Walt’s name and history. He loved to sing and was innately blessed with a remarkable vocal gift, that was discovered and nurtured during his early childhood, when he sang in elementary and high school. He loved and appreciated most fervent dedication, however, was reserved for the sacred music genre.

As an offering from the former Chancel Choir, of which he was a charter member, we say “Whether Singing” He looked Beyond My Fault and Saw My Need”, “Sweet Little Jesus Boy”, “It Is Well With My Soul”, “The Seven Last Words of Christ”, “And He Blessed My Soul” , or the “The Official Hymn of Omega Psi Phi”, Walt’s distinctive and melodic tenor voice, like his gentle and loving spirit, always soared, as if on angel wings; uplifting, inspiring, and encouraging those of us blessed to receive his vocal gifts.

He was also a charter member of the I. Sherman Greene Chorale, Inc. He lent his outstanding tenor voice to the Booker T. Washington High School Choir (in his day) and the Booker T. Washington Alumni Choir during its early years.

Our lives have been blessed beyond measure by a wonderful person; one who was wise, resourceful and kind; one whose presence exuded positivity and whose famous axioms…” If I were any better, now that I am talking to you”, or just his brilliant smile, could inspire us and make us feel better.

We remember his legacy that no matter what time of day it is, it is always GOOD MORNING! (WITH A SMILE); A TIME AND MOMENT TO REFRESH, RENEW AND BEGIN AGAIN.

In addition to his parents, Walt was predeceased by his sister, Deloris Bagby James; his brothers, Lloyd Bagby, Roland Bagby, and Raymond Bagby.

Now departed but never forgotten, cherished memories of life with Walter will remain with his loving wife of sixty-three years, Dorethea Norman Bagby; his supportive and devoted son, Walter B. Bagby Jr. (Mercedes); his granddaughter, Alexis DeVose’; great-grandson,  Quetrell Payton Jr.

He will be lovingly remembered by his siblings; brothers, Lionel Bagby (Elouise) and William Bagby (Yvonne); his sisters, Lenora (Ladybug) Alexander, Daisy (Kitty) Bagby, Brenda Bagby and Janet F. (Bunny) Bagby.

He will be sorely missed by a myriad of nieces, nephews, cousins, fraternity brothers, alumnus, long-term neighbors and friends.

SORROW IS NOT FOREVER, LOVE IS.

Viewing Wednesday, March 3, 2021 2:00pm - 6:00pm Metropolitan Funeral Service 7246 Granby Street Norfolk, VA 23505 Service WATCH SERVICE LIVE ONLINE Thursday, March 4, 2021 1:30pm Metropolitan Funeral Service Granby Chapel Entombment Roosevelt Memorial Park 1101 Campostella Road Chesapeake, VA 23320 The family is following the CDC and State of Virginia guidelines for funeral attendance.

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Condolences(36)

  1. reply
    Carmella T Norman says

    Uncle Walter, you exemplified love and compassion in all your actions. Your mild manners allowed everyone to feel safe, loved and comfortable. Thank you for being an example in my life. You and Aunt Doretha taught me act of love by service.

    Thank you,

    • reply
      James Parks says

      On behalf of the Eta Phi Chapter of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Boston MA we extend heartfelt condolences to our Brother William Bagby and family.

  2. reply
    rosa owens says

    John and Rosa Owens offer your family our sincere condolences and sympathy. We will remember you with heartfelt thoughts and caring and wishing you the light of God’s love, and the warmth of His comfort and blessings..

  3. reply
    Rev. Dr. James Edwards, lll says

    Sister Doretha and family members of Brother Walter B. Bagby, Sr., my wife, Rev. Dee and I join together in praying for you and offering our condolences on the passing of Brother Bagby. He was such a kind, warm person and we shall truly miss his spirit. Also , to Lenora my 1960 classmate at BTW and William my wife’s 1964 classmate at the same school , you are truly in our prayers as well. Rest in peace Brother Bagby for a job well done.
    Rev. Dr. James Edwards, lll
    Immediate Past 3rd. District Chaplain of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
    Huntersville Boy

  4. reply
    Paul L. Annderson says

    The entire Bagby family are in our thoughts and prayers. I am a friend and fraternity chapter brother of Bill Bagby. May God grant you His Peace during this transitional time for your family. May God continue to be with your entire family.

    Brother Paul L. Anderson, Beta Phi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
    Pastor, The Fountain of Raleigh Fellowship, 9621 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615

  5. reply
    Joe Goodrich says

    The Goodrich family( Darnell, Leon and Joe ) wish ‘Doe’ the best of the best. Walt was a perfect gentleman and great friend…..He was one of the original MALL WALKERS at Chesapeake Square . He was a perfect gentleman to all and a favorite of the REGULARS
    ……he was just a good guy and we will miss him very much. He is simply irreplaceable …………………God Bless him…..I am proud to be his friend

  6. reply
    Bishop Perry says

    Dorothea,
    My sincere condolences on the passing of Walter. Always greeted me with that warm smile and that a Omega spirit. My continued prayers for you and the family.

    • reply
      Alexis DeVosé says

      Grandpa, my heart hurts, but your suffering is no more.

      I will forever miss you….

  7. reply
    eunice shands says

    What a beautiful voice & beautiful person
    I know you are singing with the heavenly angels.

  8. reply
    Gene Jones says

    Brother Bagby was a fraternity brother, family friend and mentor. He will truly be missed and no one could sing the solo of Omega Dear like Walt Bagby. Rest well FIETTS!

    • reply
      Clifton E Barnhill says

      It is with sincere sadness to hear of the passing of our beloved teacher Mr. Walter Bagby. As communications chair of the Booker T Washington class of 1963 I am sure my fellow class members are in wholehearted agreement that he will be missed. He was a friend of graduates and students of Booker T Washington High School where he served so long.

  9. reply
    David L. Fitts says

    Rest In Peace Bro. Walt Bagby, Sr.

    Family,

    We are praying for your uplift especially now. May God continue to strengthen you with memories of Walt and all the great things you shared.

    Heaven has gained another loyal son of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. and at that appointed day and time, we will see Walt again!

    Until we meet again…

    Much Love and Respect!

    Maxine Turner Fitts (Shaw University grad) and Bro. David L. Fitts, Immediate Past Basileus, Beta Phi Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

  10. reply
    Karen Dawkins says

    It is with deep sadness, that I extend my condolences to you, “Aunt Doe” and “Lil’ Walt”. Uncle Walt has been a loving fixture in my life…for all of my life. I am grateful for his love, kindness, support, and guidance. I can still hear the doorbell ringing and him walking in and announcing that he was here! Our home was his home and his home was our home. We are “family” in every sense of the word.
    I am strengthened to know that he will continue to watch over me. Love to you always, Uncle Walt.
    Karen Smith Dawkins and Jordan Dawkins

    May God bring you all peace and comfort during this difficult time.

  11. reply
    LAVERNE WIGGINS REED says

    Dearest Doe,
    Words can’t express my sadness for the love of your wonderful husband.

    As we celebrate his life and honor his legacy; I pray that God helps you to feel the caring thoughts being sent your way, and that in time, your heart heals, too.

  12. reply
    Alveta Green says

    Deepest sympathy on the passing of Walter . He was my classmate from the 8th grade at BTW Intermediate on through BTW HIGH School graduating in the Class of “52. He and my husband rode the bus to their respective colleges, Shaw and NCCU. God needed another Great singer for the Angel Choir.
    God bless you and the family Doretha.
    Sincerely

  13. reply
    James and Michele McCoy says

    We offer our sincere condolences to the Bagby family. Walt Bagby was a nice man who will be missed greatly by the McCoy family. We especially will miss his beautiful tenor voice. Rest in heaven and peace to your family.

  14. reply
    George Easter says

    The Easter Family offers are sincere condolence during this difficult time. Walter was a perfect gentlemen, true friend and one of the original mall walkers at Chesapeake Square mall. May you find comfort in knowing He is with our Father in Heaven.

  15. reply
    Gladys Massenburg says

    Deepest sympathies to the Bagby family.
    Steve and Gladys Massenburg.

  16. reply
    Portia says

    Deepest sympathy on the passing of Mr. Bagby. Mr. Bagby generously supported Shaw University Bear Booster Club. His support will be remembered.

    • reply
      Bro Freddie L and Ouida Johnson says

      To Bro Bill Bagby and the entire Bagby family, we offer our sincere thoughts and blessings during this time of bereavement. I did not know Bro Walter Bagby, but i do know how much he was revered by his younger brother, Bill and other brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. We are praying that you find peace and healing through our Lord’s infinite love.

  17. reply
    Ann B. McInnis says

    To “Doe”, “Lil” Walt and Family:
    The McInnis family is deeply saddened by the loss of your husband and father and our dear friend and mentor.
    Walter was a wonderful gentleman whose gentle spirit, engaging smile, beautiful tenor voice, and dedication to family, church, and helping mankind endeared him to all who were fortunate enough to know him. His “Goodmorning” greeting that he always offered to everyone with a smile (no matter the time of day) now given to God, as he awakened in Heaven on February 19, 2021.

  18. reply
    Harold & Evelyn Harper says

    Mr. Bagby always showed love and kindness to everyone he met. The mall walkers will truly miss him. May God comfort the family during this time. This was his time God called him home.harter,nrt

  19. reply
    Bernie Kirsch says

    My deepest sympathy to the family and many friends that Walter Made in his long life. May he be remembered for the sweetness of his disposition and his kindness to all.

    I worked with him for several years nearly fifty years ago and interacted with him often and those relations always made me deeply admire him for his integrity and square dealing with his fellow msn.

    Rest in Peace, my friend.

  20. reply
    Ben James+ says

    Dear Doe:
    I condole with you at the transition of Walt to a better place; I am sure that his absence leaves a great vacancy in your heart and I pray for the comfort of memories at this time.
    It was my honor to work with Walt when he was at our Navy regional office. He was such a kind and gentle soul and respected and, indeed, loved by everyone. He had an unenviable challenge in managing his staff there, Lord knows, and he met that challenge with grace and dignity. He also was a tremendous support to me. I will miss him.
    May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

  21. reply
    Sharon L. Wilkins says

    Uncle Walter, your smile, laughter, kindness and gentleness will be missed, yet remembered.
    To my Aunt Dorethea, Walter Jr, family members and friends may God’s love and comfort surround
    you.

    With love and prayers
    Sharon and Family

  22. reply
    Joseph C. Jones says

    Our hearts were broken when we received the news of the passing of our dear friend and brother Walter Bagby. We shared many memories of our years at Shaw University. I can’t imagine Shaw homecoming without his presence. I will always remember how he called me recently and sang the Omega hymn with his melodious voice. We are going to miss him. All of our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this most difficult time.
    Omega Brother Joseph C. Jones and Mary Jones

    • reply
      Richard and Maura Giacolone says

      Walt was a great example of professional leadership that served me well in my future professional career. He always had a kind word to say about everyone and demonstrated civility and respectability every day.

      I pray that heaven has a golf course that he can now play into eternity. God bless Doe and the lovely Bagby family, you are in our prayers.

  23. reply
    Lula Thornton says

    Sincere condolences to the family of Walter Bagby. May the Holy Spirit comfort you as only He can, Walter and I grew up at First Calvary Baptist Church and were members of the Chancel Choir. He was truly a great friend and encourager. Doretha, Walter Jr., Lenora, William , Joyce and the entire family may his memories of give you great peace.

  24. reply
    Roland and Nancy Hayes says

    The Bagby Family:

    Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days to come. Walt’s gracious, charismatic leadership style, winning ways, superior intellect, and compassion for humanity was a precious gift to all who knew him and came into his presence. Walt may have transitioned to a better place, but he will always be remembered by Nancy and I. He will have a very special place in our hearts forever.
    The Omega Psi Phi fraternity choir in heaven has just received a new soloist to sing “Omega Dear”. With our love and deepest condolence.

    Roland and Nancy Hayes

  25. reply
    Andy James says

    I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family of my former colleague, Omega Brother and Friend. You will be missed. Rest in heavenly peace!

  26. reply
    Lisa R says

    Was a wonderful friend I will miss him much God bless the family

  27. reply
    Donald Musacchio says

    Walt was a great boss, mentor, and friend. He had a real impact on me and I would not have been as successful in my career without his guidance and forbearance.

  28. reply
    Anthony L. Kenion says

    Uncle Walter Sr., I will truly miss the presence of a lovable and kind person. My condolences go out to Aunt Dorethea, and Walter Jr,. I am truly sorry for your loss. Uncle Walter will be missed and, he will never be forgotten, may his soul rest in peace.

  29. reply
    Joycelyn Skinner Bethea says

    To Lenora and family,
    My prayers are with you all. I always loved to hear Mr. Walter sing.

  30. reply
    jessie laws says

    To the family of Walter Bagby and friends. I extend my condolence to you in the passing of your love one. Walter will be remembered for his many acts of kindness , generosity, and the wonderful person he was! May he rest in peace. Jessie Laws

  31. reply
    Regina Anthony says

    My prayers go out to the family. Mr. Bagby will truly be missed.

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