Obituaries

Shawn Phillip Martin, a charismatic and adventurous soul, passed unexpectedly on November 17, 2023, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Born on June 30, 1981, in Groton Connecticut, Shawn lived a life that was vibrant as well as full of love.

Throughout his years, Shawn found fulfillment in his work as a contractor, a man of many talents, he found happiness in helping others.

In addition to his passion for life, Shawn held a special place in his heart for his loved ones. Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Courtney Martin (neé Troyan) and his daughter Keara Martin, who resides in Covington, WA. Shawn’s memory will also live on in the hearts of parents, Thomas and Kathy Martin; brothers, Michael (Karen) and Jonathan (Tim) Martin, both of Chesapeake, VA; sister, Amy (Alix) Martin of Portland, OR; nephews, Dylan, Tyler, Isaiah, and Rhyland Martin of Chesapeake, VA.; grandmother, Lillian Martin of Detroit, MI; uncles, David (Carol) Martin and Michael (Melissa) Martin, both of Michigan. Shawn also left behind many cousins throughout the country. He was predeceased by his son Phillip Martin, grandparents, Dave and Arleen Wyse, and grandfather, Michael Martin, Sr.

Their bond was unbreakable, and the memories they shared will be treasured always. His impact on those who knew him was immeasurable. His quick wit and genuine kindness brightened the lives of all who crossed his path.

Honor Shawn’s memory by embracing life’s uncertainties and living each day to the fullest, helping others, and loving fiercely. May his spirit forever guide us on our own journeys, reminding us to hold tight to the handlebars and enjoy the ride.

Cheryl Murray (1944-2023)

Cheryl Murray, a beloved mother, sister, and grandmother, passed away on November 25, 2023, at the age of 79 in Virginia Beach. Born on June 1, 1944, in Massachusetts, Cheryl’s life was a testament to resilience, love, and dedication.

Cheryl had a fulfilling career as a Passport Agent, where she touched the lives of countless individuals with her warmth and professionalism. Her commitment to helping others was evident in every interaction, and she will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to her work.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Cheryl’s true joy came from her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion, cherished by her surviving family members. Sister Christina Caldwell and brother Jimmy Murray will forever hold Cheryl in their hearts, remembering the bond they shared throughout the years.

Cheryl’s children, Janine, Imani, Naomi, Eric, Andre, and Anthony, were the light of her life. As a mother, she instilled in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and empathy. Cheryl’s love and guidance will continue to shape their lives, serving as a constant reminder of her enduring spirit.

In addition to her children, Cheryl leaves behind numerous grandchildren, who brought immeasurable joy into her life. Their laughter and love filled her days with happiness, creating treasured memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

Cheryl Murray will be remembered as an inspiration to all who knew her. Her kind heart, unwavering support, and selfless nature made a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her. Though she may no longer be with us, her spirit will live on through the memories she created and the love she shared.

As we mourn the loss of Cheryl, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived. May her legacy serve as a reminder to embrace each day with gratitude, kindness, and compassion. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who loved her.

Rest in peace, Cheryl Murray.

Marshall “Mike” Elliotte Tanner Jr., 84, was welcomed into heaven by his Lord and Savior on November 8, 2023, surrounded by the love of his wife, children, and grandchildren. Born February 24, 1939, in Gladys, Virginia, to Marshall E. Tanner Sr. and Virginia J. Tanner. Mike graduated from Brookville High School in Lynchburg, later obtaining his bachelor’s degree in 1985 from St. Leo College. He loved his country and proudly served in the United States Navy, retiring after 22 years of service. He loved to share stories of his military days and travels with his children and grandchildren.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 50 years, Doris C. Tanner; his children: Cheryl W. Vincent (Rob), Lisa C. Pardue, Rhonda L. Waller (Lee), Tracey L. Jamerson (Jeffrey), Rhonda K. Perkins (Jim), and J. Brent Tanner (Leanna); 12 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; one brother, Neal Tanner; one sister, Betty Hamlet; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son, Michael W. Williams; his parents; and two
sisters. Pappy loved his wife and family and nothing brought him more joy and happiness than to be surrounded by their love, their laughter, and a large bowl of ice cream.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at 12:00 pm at Discover Church officiated by Pastor Rob Vincent, 3232 S. Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake, VA. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at 11:00 am. A reception will follow at 3234 S. Battlefield Blvd, Chesapeake, VA. Burial will be private at a later date.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:
Discover Church
3232 S. Battlefield Blvd.
Chesapeake, VA 23322

Rest well Pappy…because of His promises we know we will be reunited one day.
I have fought the good fight.
I have finished the race.
I have kept the faith.
-2 Timothy 4:7

Kim Marie Miller, born on July 22, 1961, passed away October 31, 2023, in Norfolk, Virginia. Kim lived a fulfilling life, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy that will forever be treasured.

Born in Virginia, Kim Marie Miller dedicated over 50 years of her life to barbering. With her skilled hands and warm heart, she touched the lives of countless individuals who sought her expertise. Kim’s passion for her work was evident in the care and attention she gave to each person who sat in her chair. She found joy in playing pool, engaging in lively games of bingo, and most importantly, spending quality time with her beloved grandchildren. Their laughter and happiness brought immense joy to her heart.

Kim Marie MIller was preceded in death by her parents, Bruce and Joan (Lee) Fischer, as well as her sisters, Debbie and Denise. She leaves behind a loving family to cherish her memory. Her devoted husband, Roger Dale Miller, Kim is also survived by her children, Robert Baldwin, Ashley, and Caitlin Enlow; her sisters, Lori McPherson and Karen Owsinski; lastly her grandchildren, Addison Baldwin, Riley Sanwick, Chase Sanwick , Ethan Baldwin, and Vannessa Enlow, brought immense joy to her life and will forever be a testament to her love.

A memorial service to honor the life of Kim Marie Miller will be held at a later date.

Mary Ann Kodya, peacefully passed away on November 4, 2023, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She was born in Hazeleton, Pennsylvania on December 8, 1930, to Charles and Josephine Daniels.

Mary loved being a mother to her children: Robert (Jane) Kodya Jr., Marla (Jacob) Miller, Michael (Jeananne) Kodya, Mark (Kathy) Kodya; a sister to her siblings: Helen Longo, Eleanor Ciculya, Josephine Daniels, Cecila Fitchner, Rudy Daniels. She found great joy being a grandmother to her 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. It was her family that brought her the most happiness. Spending time with her loved ones filled her heart with immeasurable joy.

Throughout her life, Mary dedicated herself to her work as a retail clerk, serving customers with kindness and warmth. Her cheerful disposition and attentive nature made her a cherished member of the community.

Mary was a long time born again Christian who put her faith in Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her devotion to Him was evident in the life she led and in her service to others. She had a servant’s heart and lived by 1 Peter 4:10 “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” Mary may not have had many physical riches on Earth by man’s standards but she will have unimaginable riches in heaven as her love for Jesus was unwavering, steadfast and true. No doubt she heard “Well done, good and faithful servant! You were faithful over a few things, I will make your ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of the Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)

Mark Jones, born in Blue Sulphur Springs West Virginia on June 14, 1942, passed away peacefully at
home surrounded by family on November 4, 2023, in Virginia Beach. He was a man who lived a life full
of generosity and love, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered with a smile.

Mark's journey through life was marked by his dedication to serving others. As a retired Army medic and
Physician's Assistant, he spent his career selflessly caring for those in need. During his time in the Army
he served in Vietnam, and for his service received the “Vietnam Service Medal” with three campaign
stars. Even after retirement, he found ways to support his community.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mark loved and was dedicated to his family, and could always
be counted on for a word of advice or encouragement. He could always be found at family gatherings
sitting in HIS spot and quietly observing the shenanigans of his loved ones. One of his greatest pleasures
was indulging in the fizzy goodness of a cold Coke-a-cola. Whether it was while fixing a lawn mower in
the driveway on a summer day or a chilly winter evening watching sports, especially tennis, you could
always find Mark sipping on his beloved beverage.

Mark is survived and missed by his loving wife Joanne of 60 years; and his children Mark (Lera), Jeff
(Michelle), and Tony (Lynn). Forever cherished by his granddaughters Shannon (Dan), Caitlin (Nick), and
Carly, and by his great grandchildren Elizabeth, Braelyn, and Skylar.

Mark is preceded by his daughter Debbie, father Lee, mother Maggie, and sister Maxine.

To honor Mark's spirit, a funeral mass will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Friday, November
10th at 12 noon. We invite all who knew him to come and celebrate his life in a joyful manner. In fact,
wearing vibrant and bright attire is encouraged, as we commemorate a life well lived.

After the mass, a reception will follow, providing an opportunity for friends and loved ones to share
stories, laughter, and perhaps even raise a glass of Coke-a-cola in his name. It is a chance to remember
the man who brought light into our lives and made us cherish each moment.

Mark may have left this world, but his memory will forever live on in our hearts and minds. Let us gather
to pay tribute to his remarkable journey and the impact he had on all of us.

Rest in peace, dear Mark, knowing that your legacy will continue to inspire us all.

in lieu of flowers donations can be made in Mark’s name to the Alzheimer’s foundation

Eileen Gerrity, a beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on November 3, 2023, in Virginia Beach. She was born on September 27, 1953, in Massachusetts. At the time of her passing, Eileen was 70 years old.

Eileen’s life was centered around her family, and her dedication to them knew no bounds. She found immense joy in caring for her grandson Aaron, ensuring his happiness and well-being. Her nurturing nature and unconditional love was evident in all her interactions with her loved ones.

Eileen was preceded in death by her loving husband, Michael Gerrity, as well as her brother in law, John Currie, Sr, niece Courtney Koke and nephew Jared Monti. Their absence left a void in her heart, but she remained strong for those she held dear.

She is survived by her sisters, Janet Monti, Mary Currie, Theresa Lindsay and her husband Richard, Barbara Ross, Patricia Furtney and her husband Ken, and Lynda Ross-Koke. Eileen was also cherished by her sister-in-law Patricia Greenwalt, brother-in-law Douglas Gerrity, brother-in-law Paul Gerrity, and brothers Allan Ross and his wife Kathy, Thomas Ross, James Ross and his wife Sherri, and John Ross. She leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will always hold fond memories of their beloved aunt.

Eileen’s legacy lives on through her daughter Kimberly Joffrion and son-in-law Ricardo Joffrion; grandson, Aaron Poore and his fiancée Ashley Daughety; grandsons, Andrew Joffrion and Anthony Joffrion.

Services to honor Eileen’s life will be held at Horton Veterans Cemetery, with the date and time to be determined. Inurnment will take place at this sacred location, where she will find eternal peace.

Eileen Gerrity will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will forever remain in our hearts. May she rest in eternal tranquility, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.