On June 10, 2025, at home surrounded by his family, Marcus Edward Boykins, Jr. (aka: Birdie) was called home to be with his Heavenly Father. Marcus leaves behind a legacy of God given strength, unwavering love, and deep devotion to family. He touched countless lives, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him. Born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, Marcus was the oldest son of the late Marcus E. Boykins, Sr.…...
Read Full MemorialOn Thursday, June 5, 2025, our precious little prince KwAmir Nezha Howard, beloved infant son of Shakeira Roberts and Johnathan Howard was ascended and was called home by our Heavenly Father. KwAmir was born in Jefferson County, NY. The Lord blessed us with him on April 24, 2025. KwAmir was a sweet little soul whose eyes were bright, beautiful, full of hope and love. He was such an advanced little child, being able to roll…...
Read Full MemorialRudy Joyner, 68, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born in 1956 in Norfolk, Virginia, to the late Sylvia and Alexander Joyner. Raised in Burton Station and graduated from Norview High School in 1975. Rudy proudly served in the United States Army, and it was during his time stationed in Seoul, South Korea, in 1979, that he met and married the love of his life, Kum Joyner.…...
Read Full MemorialLena Wilson was a devoted Pentecostal Baptist Church attendant. She was born on September 17, 1936, in Washington, North Carolina, to Woodley Whitley, Sr. and Johnnie Ruth Whitley. She was married to Willis E. Wilson, Sr. She retired from Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where she worked as a fabric worker. She had six children: Jennifer Rodriguez, Chrystal Wilson, Willis E. Wilson, Jr., Selena Edwards, Phillip D. Wilson, and Johnna McKnight. She leaves behind 18 grandchildren and…...
Read Full MemorialMary Dorothy Kesiah Bennett de Wattley transitioned to eternal life while at home on Sunday, June 8, 2025, from end-stage heart failure. She was born in the city of Colón, Panama, to the late David Benjamin Dougal Bennett and Repersia Forte on March 8, 1928. Both of her parents were immigrants from the island of Jamaica who came to Panama to work on the construction of the Panamá Canal. Dorothy’s father was a skilled carpenter,…...
Read Full MemorialRoderick Jerome Simmons, Jr. was born on September 12, 1990, in Norfolk, VA. He was the son of Denise “Pattie” Goodman and the late Roderick “PeeWee” Simmons, Sr. Affectionately known as Weedy, Wezzy, Wezz, or Rah, he touched many lives throughout his lifetime. Whether it was a joke, a smile, or an inspirational quote, he always poured into others, making them feel seen and valued. He was a shining light for all who knew him.…...
Read Full MemorialThe Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. ~ Psalm 34:18 On June 5, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at home, Derek “Dee” Eugene Ward (53) peacefully departed this earthly life to be with our Heavenly Father. Derek was a beloved husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Known to many as “Dee,” he was cherished for his love, loyalty, and compassion. He touched countless lives,…...
Read Full MemorialMarjory N. Oliver, 83, passed away on June 5, 2025. She was born to Reverend Raymond Neely, Sr., and Mamie Louisa Neely on August 24, 1941, in Buena Vista, AL. She spent part of her childhood in Alabama and moved to Concord, North Carolina, when she was 12. Marjory received an undergraduate degree from Barbara Scotia College and a graduate degree from Old Dominion University. She began her career as a teacher at Peabody High…...
Read Full MemorialOur beloved Antonio “Tone” Nixon passed on June 4, 2025, in Richmond, Virginia. The hearts of Priscilla Nixon and Jesse Carter were overjoyed to welcome Priscilla’s first born Antonio Trenton Nixon, to the world on February 24, 1980. Tone attended Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, Virginia & was employed with At Ease Moving LLC. In Richmond, Virginia, his love for video games early in life sparked an imagination that turned to a passion…...
Read Full MemorialAffectionately known as “Mayor” of Pughsville James “Buddy Red” Lawton, Sr., 83, peacefully entered eternal rest on June 4, 2025. Born on August 7, 1941, in Nansemond County, Virginia, he was the second oldest of 15 children born to the late Annie and George Lawton. Buddy was a strong, generous provider and a pillar of support for his parents, siblings, and extended family. Deeply rooted in faith, family, and community, he devoted his life to…...
Read Full MemorialIda Mae Smith, beloved matriarch and cherished soul, peacefully departed this life on June 5, 2025, at the blessed age of 91. Born on May 25, 1934, Ida Mae lived a life rooted in faith, family, and grace-leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, and quiet resilience. She was united in holy matrimony to William Thomas Smith, with whom she shared a long and devoted union. Together, they built a home filled with love, respect,…...
Read Full MemorialOn Monday, May 19, 2025, Nathan Tylik Johnson was called home to be with his Heavenly Father. He was born on February 26, 1976, to Lillian Jackson and Clifton Aikens in Brooklyn, New York. Nathan, known to all as “Nate,” loved the Lord and valued his relationship with God more than life’s circumstances. In 1996, he became a member of the Christian Tabernacle in Wilmington, Delaware. He worked as a teacher at Christian Tabernacle Academy…...
Read Full MemorialStephan was born September 28, 1963, to Joe Harvey Hayes and Martha Cleo Hayes. Stephan is predeceased by both of his parents; daughter, Taresha Spencer; brother, Antoin Hayes; and sister, Sherrell Hayes Williams. Stephen attended Booker T. Washington High School. Stephan is survived by his wife, Georgia D. Taylor-Hayes; brother, Ronnie Hayes and Yolando-Hayes; sisters, Sharon Hayes Taylor (Angelo) and Josette Hayes Walker (Jeffrey); son, Cameron Tyric Spencer; as well as a host of nieces…...
Read Full MemorialMary Ella Cooper was born on June 12, 1960, in Norfolk, Virginia, to the late James Henry and Ruby Rose Cooper. She attended Norfolk Public Schools and graduated from Lake Taylor High School in 1978. Mary later pursued business studies at Kee Business College and studied piano under the late Ianthia Virginia Uzzle. At the tender age of 10, Mary joined Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where she was baptized. She was an active participant in…...
Read Full MemorialYolanda Anne Powell was born on June 15, 1963, to the late Theodore and Eva Marie Carroll. At 61 years of age, she gained her angelic wings quietly in her home on the grand rising of Sunday, June 1, 2025. Yolanda grew up in the South Hill area of Chesapeake. She was raised by her grandparents, the late Theodore and Flonzora B. Carroll. Yolanda graduated from Oscar Frommel Smith High School in 1981. For most…...
Read Full MemorialBessie Lorean Shark was born in Southampton County on September 30, 1948, and made her transition into eternity on May 31, 2025, ending her battle from illness at home in Norfolk, VA. Bessie received her primary education at Ruffner Jr. High and Booker T. Washington High School. She worked several housekeeping positions. She is predeceased by her parents, Paul E. Warren and Madis Lee Warren; son, Jasper L. Scott; daughter, Pamela D. Jenkins; sister, Mazie…...
Read Full MemorialYvonne D. Lane, 69, peacefully transitioned on May 29, 2025, in her home in Norfolk, Virginia, surrounded by the love and care of her sons. Born on June 6, 1955, in Norfolk, Yvonne was a cherished mother, sister, grandmother, and friend whose uplifting spirit and selfless heart touched countless lives. Yvonne grew up in the Berkley neighborhood of Norfolk, raised by her parents, Willie and Fannie Bell Woodard. She shared a special bond with her…...
Read Full MemorialRoberta Lee Smith won the jackpot of all time. The alert went off on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. She had won BIG time. She entered into the arms of Our Lord & Savior. Roberta was born to the late Clara & Albert Harrell on October 19, 1940, in Norfolk, VA. Roberta received her education through the Norfolk Public School system. In her early years, she was employed at Norfolk General…...
Read Full MemorialAndre Antonio DeLoatch Sr., 65, passed away suddenly on May 27, 2025. A resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, Andre was a beloved father, grandfather, friend, and pillar of strength to all who knew him. Andre was born to Calvin and Cleo DeLoatch in Nansemond County, Virginia, on August 6, 1959. In his early years, Andre loved to go crabbing and have a drink or two with family and friends. Later on, Andre enjoyed listening to old…...
Read Full MemorialRhett, a devout Christian, beloved father, and dedicated professional, passed away on May 27th after a courageous battle with bladder cancer. He is survived by his loving son, Rhett C. Butler, Jr., and his wife, Cheryl L. Butler, as well as his devoted siblings, Chery L. Mack and Rev. Willie T. Butler, along with their families. Rhett was a highly respected member of the City of Chesapeake Revenue Operations Team since February 16, 1998. His…...
Read Full MemorialEvelyn Gordon Mitchell, 94, entered her eternal rest on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Chesapeake Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was predeceased by her life partner, Otis Melvin, and parents Carrie Gordon and Thomas Cooke. She was born April 7, 1931, in Norfolk, Virginia. Evelyn attended Booker T. Washington High School. She was a member of St. Paul Church of God in Christ, Norfolk, VA. Evelyn later joined the Order of the Eastern Star in…...
Read Full MemorialIt is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Curtis Leroy Crumity, Jr., age 35, of Norfolk, Virginia. He was called home to rest on May 26, 2025. Curtis was born on December 12, 1989, in Portsmouth, Virginia, to Philissa Marable and Curtis Leroy Crumity, Sr. He attended Green Run High School, Tallwood High School, and Booker T. Washington High School. He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in 2008. He…...
Read Full MemorialKenneth D. Lewis, known to his family and friends as Dwayne or “Teddy Bug,” died on May 25, 2025, in Richmond, Virginia. Kenneth was born in Richmond, VA, on December 3, 1960, to Robert Sr. and Elsie (Bond) Lewis. They later moved to Norfolk, VA, where Kenneth graduated from Lake Taylor High School. Kenneth served in the U.S. Army, retiring as a Staff Sergeant. Kenneth loved all types of music and singing. He served in…...
Read Full MemorialWith deep sorrow and enduring love, we announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Julia Rosena Cowell-affectionately known as “Rose,” who departed this life at the age of 81 on May 28, 2025. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of quiet strength, unwavering love, and deep devotion to her family. Born on June 11, 1943, in Norfolk County, VA, Rose was the heart of our home, a devoted…...
Read Full MemorialEve Mae Carter, lovingly known to many as “Mae Mae,” was born on February 25, 1945, in Norfolk, VA, to the late James and Eva Carter. She peacefully transitioned on May 28, 2025, at Portside Health and Rehabilitation Center. Mae was preceded in death by her beloved parents, her brothers Donald V. Tanner of Tempe, Arizona, and James B. Nolan of Beaufort, North Carolina, her granddaughter Erykah, and her lifelong friend Doris Parker. Mae received…...
Read Full MemorialOn May 27, 2025 Ms. Belinda Larvne Simpson was called home to be with the Lord. She was born on October 4, 1949 to the late Mr. Nicholas and Mrs. Florence (Hill) Simpson in the city of Portsmouth. She was the first grandchild of the late Mr. David J. and Mrs. Flossie (Scott) Hill. Belinda is preceded in death my both her father and mother; her youngest sister, Ms. Renita “Sweet gal” Simpson, and an…...
Read Full MemorialIt is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, and friend, Rebel Lux Brown, who died unexpectedly on May 26, 2025, at the age of 7, after a sudden and courageous battle with leukemia. Rebel was born to parents Jason T. and Alicia Danielle Brown on July 8, 2017. Born on July 8, 2017, Rebel brought joy, light, and boundless love to everyone who knew her. A…...
Read Full MemorialCelebrating the Life and Legacy of Willie Otelia Allen The Life of Willie Otelia Allen began on February 21, 1943, in the small town of Windsor, North Carolina. She was the eldest daughter of Willie Rogers and Joanna Smith. She attended W.S. Etheridge School from kindergarten to the twelfth grade, where she established many close relationships that she maintained throughout her life. One of Willie’s greatest pastimes was to share stories about her childhood and…...
Read Full MemorialLeslie or “Tommy” as we called him, departed this life on a sunny, warm day. Leslie was born in Norfolk, VA, and remained here for the rest of his life. He attended Norfolk Public Schools and graduated in 1992 from Lake Taylor High School with academic honors received in May 1991. Leslie was predeceased by his father, Leslie S. Pope; maternal grandparents, paternal grandparents, aunts, and uncles. He is survived by his loving and devoted…...
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