MEMORIAL
John Michael Donlon
Captain John Michael Donlon, USN, Retired, 95, of Groton, CT, died peacefully in the comfort of his home on December 26, 2022. Born in Amsterdam, NY on September 1, 1927, to the late Hugh P. and Frances Nadler Donlon, John was the second-oldest of four brothers. His three brothers – Charles, Thomas, and Edward – all predeceased him. John is also predeceased by his loving wife of 60 years, Anita Snyder Donlon.
John is survived by his children, daughter Michelle (Donlon) Buchanan and her husband, Howard Buchanan; son CDR Michael P. Donlon, USN (RET) and his wife, Rebecca (Zimmerman); son Patrick H. Donlon; son CDR Kevin C. Donlon, USN (RET) and his wife, Lori (White); son SGM Thomas F. Donlon, USA (RET) and his wife, Elizabeth (Barci); daughter Mary C. Donlon and her husband, Timothy D. Shafman; and daughter Kelly Donlon Hoy and her husband Randy A. Hoy. John is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and his sisters-in-law Mrs. Jeanne Donlon, Mrs. Maureen Donlon and Ms. Carole McAuliffe.
John spent his youth in Amsterdam during the Great Depression, raised by his father, after he lost his mother when he was 7. From an early age, John had a calling for the sea and the military. At 9, he became a Sea Scout; at 16, he entered Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, completing one year before he became old enough to attend the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated in June, 1949. Newly commissioned as an Ensign, he married his great love, the former Anita Snyder of Chadds Ford, PA, the very next day. Together they had 7 children. Theirs was a marriage spanning 60 years of deep love, faith, and commitment, marked by long navy deployments and 26 household moves, treasured annual family vacations at Wellfleet, Cape Cod, and travel with friends and family until Anita’s death in 2009. At John’s death, his lineal descendants numbered 64: 7 children; 28 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.
Captain Donlon’s distinguished and respected naval career of 30 years began aboard the destroyers VOGELGESANG and PUTNAM before he attended Submarine School in 1950 and served two tours of duty on submarines SENNET and SEA DOG before he returned to Submarine School in 1952 as an instructor in the Officer Course for two years. He resumed sea duty in USS BANG and a year later became Executive Officer of USS HALFBEAK. Captain Donlon completed the Advanced Nuclear Power Course at New London in 1960, whereupon he trained at the prototype reactor at Windsor, CT and at Bettis Atomic Power Laboratory, Pittsburg. He then served as Executive Officer of TINOSA at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, New Hampshire.
He assumed command of USS SHARK in 1963, during which time he was awarded the Legion of Merit and the ship received the Navy Unit Commendation. During his tenure, SHARK was also awarded the Marjorie Sterrett Battleship Fund Award as first in battle efficiency in the Atlantic Fleet. After detaching from SHARK, he attended the Polaris Command Course at Dam Neck, VA then commanded USS WOODROW WILSON from 1966-68.
Captain Donlon commanded Submarine Division FORTY-TWO from 1968-69, and then reported to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, as Head, SSN Program Coordination Branch. He served as Commanding Officer of Submarine Tender L.Y. SPEAR from 1971-73, for which he was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal. He commanded Submarine Squadron SIX from 1973-75, and was awarded a second Legion of Merit. Captain Donlon then served his last tour of duty as Chief of Staff, Commander Submarine Group TWO until his retirement in July 1979, marked by an award of a third Legion of Merit.
After leaving active duty he served as a consultant for General Public Utilities in the wake of the Three-Mile Island incident before he spent 15 years as a logistics engineer for the Electric Boat Division of the General Dynamics Corporation in support of TRIDENT operational submarines.
A devout Roman Catholic, John was a communicant at Sacred Heart Church in Groton, where, in his later years, he attended daily Mass and formed many personal relationships among his fellow parishioners, becoming a fixture at funerals, baptisms, confirmations and school events. John also served for many years as a committee member for the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich’s annual Red, White and Blue Mass honoring U.S. Military Veterans.
John was an avid student of naval history; a prodigious NY Times Sunday Crossword Puzzle devotee; a passionate croquet competitor against his brothers; a determined beach jarts player; a skilled whistler; a fan of limericks of questionable taste; a master at name jokes; a Scrabble and Trivial Pursuit champion; an avid watcher of Jeopardy; and a lifelong NY Giants fan. All who knew John were amazed by his encyclopedic memory; his fierce patriotism; his loquacity; his loud and impassioned defense of his opinions and his beliefs; his laughter; his stubbornness; and most enduringly, his big heart. His children will fondly remember his love for Anita and for his children, his grandchildren and his great-grandchildren; his pride of country and the U.S. Navy; his self-deprecating humor; his adherence to rules; the massive breakfasts he made us following Sunday Mass; his ice cream floats; his Christmas tree travails; and long, exciting trips in the family station wagon to visit our relatives.
After John’s health declined during the last four years of his life, his superbly skilled and devoted live-in caregiver Alice lovingly and respectfully made his dream of remaining in his home until the end of his life a reality. John’s family is forever grateful for Alice’s expert care and concern for him. We would also like to thank John’s entire care team from Lighthouse Home Health, especially his nurses, MaryElla and Sue, aides Kim and Barbella, and his physical therapist, Carolyn. John benefited immensely from their care and concern, and not surprisingly, he also enjoyed receiving the attentions of these talented and engaging women.
A visitation will be held on Friday, January 6th, from 4-6 p.m. at Byles-Groton Memorial Home, 310 Thames Street, Groton, CT. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday, January 7th at 1 p.m., Sacred Heart Church, 55 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton. Interment with Full Military Honors will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Meals-on-Wheels in John’s memory at www.tvcca.com.
BYLES-GROTON MEMORIAL HOME
310 Thames St.
Groton, CT 06340
860 445 4844
H. Brock Barkley, Jr.
H. Brock Barkley, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died on January 11, 2023. He was born in Raleigh, North Carolina on April 5, 1927, the son of H. Brock Barkley and Thelma Maurine Dutt. He was raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1949, and received a second Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science Degree in Electronics Engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School in 1955.
He married his high school sweetheart, Edith Sumner Stowe, in 1950. During his 12 years of naval service, they lived in Rhode Island, California, Virginia, Idaho, and Massachusetts. Also during those years, their three children were born. Following their Navy years they lived in Michigan, Ohio, Idaho, and ultimately settled in Lynchburg in 1981.
In the Navy, he served on the USS Valley Forge, then was selected as one of the first four officers in Admiral Rickover’s Nuclear Navy program to develop nuclear surface ships. He trained at the Nuclear Power Training Unit in Idaho in nuclear physics and engineering, and was involved in the construction and testing of the nuclear reactors for the Navy’s first nuclear-powered surface ship, the USS Long Beach. Once it was commissioned, he served as power officer, a key member of its first crew.
After leaving the Navy in 1961, he continued his scientific and nuclear career. He worked at Bendix as supervisor of the Space Power Section. He worked for NASA at the Plum Brook Station as Chief of the Reactor Division. He worked for Aerojet Nuclear Company, the prime contractor for the Department of Energy at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, as the Assistant General Manager for Power Reactors. He then held several positions at Babcock & Wilcox, including Manager of International Business and Director of Space and Defense Systems. He ended his career as a consultant for Ebasco, in charge of all reactor systems.
He enjoyed visiting his family in the places they lived including California, Oregon, Wisconsin, Haiti, Mali, and Nepal. He enjoyed many world-wide tours and cruises after his retirement. He also regularly organized family reunions in interesting places around the country so the entire family could be together.
He served his community in many ways. He was church organist, served as deacon and elder in the Presbyterian church, served on school funding committees, community music organizations, and civic organizations. He was a member of the IEEE, the Rotary Club, and the American Guild of Organists. He loved being surrounded by family, listening to classical music and opera performances, skiing with family, sailing, and he never missed his daily crossword puzzle or Jeopardy. He was a life long cat lover.
He is survived by his three children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren: Daughter Margaret Barkley Byess, spouse Richard Byess, and their children: Abigail Byess; and James Byess, partner Meghan Dalton. Son H. Brock Barkley III, spouse Sebastiana Costello Barkley, and their children: Benjamin Barkley, spouse Rachelann McIntyre Barkley, and child Javonta McIntyre; Timothy Barkley and child Eevee Yard; Joshua Barkley; and Katherine Barkley Richardson, spouse Virgil Richardson, children Eleanor Richardson and Tobias Richardson. Daughter Jane Stowe Barkley and her children: Emily Barkley-Levenson, spouse Jeremy Kopman, child Rafael Barkley-Kopman; and Amanda Barkley-Levenson, spouse James Anderson.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 21, 2023 at the Westminster-Canterbury Chapel. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his memory to sponsor a dog or cat at the Lynchburg Humane Society: https://lynchburghumane.org/donations/honor-memory/.
Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory
220 Breezewood Drive
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Phone: (434) 237-9424
Brock Bar
Edward S. Briggs
Vice Admiral Edward S. Briggs, USN (Retired) died peacefully at his home in Escondido, CA in the presence of his family on November 22, 2022.
Born in St. Paul Minnesota, he was the second of three sons of Charles W. Briggs, prominent attorney and member of the Briggs and Morgan Law Firm, and Lois Johnson Briggs. He committed his lifetime to his family, naval service, and the nation. He was a Pacific Fleet sailor for most of his career with wartime experience as both a naval aviator and surface warfare officer; intervening assignments in England, the Pentagon, and the Atlantic Command punctuated his 39 years of service. An advocate of superior education for the nation's youth and an apprentice author, he dedicated his retirement years to both avocations. As an avid golfer (MN HS Champion 1944), he was known to smell the roses on the links along the way.
Briggs attended the University of Minnesota High School and Sullivan School in Washington DC before entering the United States Naval Academy in 1945. Upon graduation in June, 1949, he married his high school sweetheart, movie actress Nanette Parks, daughter of Superior Court Judge Clayton and Evelyn Parks of St. Paul. Ed and Nan began their 35 years of Navy life together as he entered naval flight training in Pensacola, Florida, earning his wings there in 1951.
A member of Fighter Squadron 192, Briggs flew the F4U-4 Corsair and the F9F-5 Panther jet during and following the Korean War, operating from the aircraft carriers Princeton and Oriskany. His naval aviation career continued in 1954 with subsequent tours as a basic and advanced flight instructor, Air Intelligence Officer in the carrier Ranger, and Heavy Attack Squadron 124 for training and qualification in the nuclear capable A3D Sky Warrior in 1961.
Then a Lieutenant Commander, Briggs left naval aviation in 1962 and began a new naval career as Executive Officer of the destroyer USS Harry E. Hubbard (DD 748). Following assignments in England at the Joint Services Staff College and U.S. Naval Forces Europe Command, he took command of the destroyer USS Turner Joy (DD (951) during two deployments to the Vietnam War Theater, 1966-1968. Immediately upon relief as Commanding Officer was a tour as Surface Operations Officer for Commander Attack Carrier Striking Force, U.S. Seventh Fleet. After a Pentagon assignment, Captain Briggs became Commanding Officer of the guided missile frigate USS Jouett (DLG/CLG 29) in 1971 and then Deputy Commander and Chief-of-Staff U.S. Seventh Fleet. Beginning in 1973 he served as Fleet Operations Officer for the Commander-in-Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet. He was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral in 1975.
In flag officer billets Vice Admiral Briggs served as Commander Cruiser-Destroyer Group Three, U.S. Pacific Fleet; Commander Navy Recruiting Command; Commander Naval Logistics Command, U.S. Pacific Fleet; Commander Naval District Pearl Harbor; and Deputy Commander-in-Chief and Chief of Staff U.S. Pacific Fleet. His last assignment was as Commander Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, retiring in 1984.
In retirement, Admiral and Mrs. Briggs made their home in Escondido, California where he was soon engaged as a member of the county school districts' Curriculum and Instructional Development Committees at San Diego Unified and Escondido Elementary and High School levels. He was chairman of the latter committee for four years, 1985 to 1998. At the same time and until his death he remained an active supporter of the Navy and Armed Forces through the Navy League, San Diego Military Advisory Council, the Recruiting District Advisory Council, and as a mentor of the NJ ROTC Unit at Orange Glen High School in his hometown.
As an apprentice author he wrote his family history and a series of dissertations that included A
Return To Liberal Education, The War We Are In, The Promised Land, A Case For National Security, A Civics Lesson --- The Constitution, and The Afghanistan Challenge. In 2014 he co-authored the policy paper Climate Change, Energy Policy, and National Power published by Heartland Institute of Chicago.
Vice Admiral Briggs is survived by his wife Nanette, son Jeffrey, grandchildren Kathryn Lee Daly and Edward Shannon Briggs, and two great grandchildren.
Please write jbriggs@jbriggslaw.com for memorial information.
Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Jan. 29, 2023.
Alexander Thomson
CAPT Alexander (Al) Dingwall Thomson, USN, Retired, of Lorton, passed away peacefully at age 97 on January 19, 2023. He was born in Scotland and immigrated to the USA at a young age. He graduated from the Naval Academy in 1949 and was commissioned an ensign in the Navy. He married Elinor Mae Ufer on June 11, 1949. Al was a veteran of WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War. After retiring from the Navy, he worked as a defense contractor before permanently retiring.
Alexander is preceded in death by Alexander Deas Thomson (father), Elizabeth Dingwall Thomson (mother), Betty Thomson Westhoven (sister) and Elinor Ufer Thomson (wife).
Alexander is survived by CAPT Alan Douglas Thomson, USN, Retired (son), Judy Hall Thomson (Alan's wife), Linda Susan Thomson (daughter), Aaron Daniel Thomson and Gregory Alan Thomson (grandsons), Allison Mathis (Gregory's wife), and Caroline Elizabeth Thomson (great granddaughter).
Funeral services will be at Fort Meyer Chapel followed by interment at Arlington National Cemetery; date to be determined.
Published by The Washington Post on Jan. 29, 2023
Peter Sarris
Peter John Sarris, of Deerbrook, died on March 2, 2023 at Rosalia Gardens Assisted Living. He was 97 years old. He was born on January 13, 1926 in Antigo, a son of John and Sylvia (Tsiboris) Sarris. Peter's father and uncle started the Sarris Brothers Sweet Shop in Downtown Antigo which operated from 1920 to 1961.
Peter graduated from Antigo High School in 1944 and received an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis. Mr. Sarris was a World War II era and Korean War veteran having served in the United States Navy.
Peter married Norma Grant on January 8, 1955, at Peace Lutheran Church. She preceded him in death on June 21, 2015.
After his military service, he received his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
He had a long career as a stockbroker with Merrill Lynch in Detroit and Green Bay. He enjoyed spending the summers at Bass Lake with his family and friends.
Peter was a lifelong athlete who played high school football and basketball and later in life enjoyed running and golf.
Survivors include two daughters, Robin Sarris of Ann Arbor, Michigan, Terri (Frank Pahl) Sarris of Ann Arbor, Michigan; two sons, John (Elizabeth Rathke) Sarris of Madison, Grant (Adriana) Sarris of Leawood, Kansas; four grandchildren, Olivia, Sofia, Peter, and Emma Sarris.
In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Peter Hallop; brother, Arthur Sarris; and sister, Betty Demopoulos.
A memorial service may be held at a later date.
Burial will take place at the Elmwood Cemetery in Antigo.
Memorials in Peter's name may be directed to LeRoyer Hospice.
A special thank you to the staff at Rosalia Gardens, Hands with Hearts, and LeRoyer Hospice for their loving care.
Bradley Funeral Home
1550 Neva Rd
Antigo, WI 54409
(715) 623-3787
https://www.bradleyfh.com/obituary/654324/Peter-Sarris/
Lemond DeKern Lang
On March 2, 2023, God called Lemond “Deke” Lang of Worthington home to heaven after 95 years. A native of Russell, Kentucky, Deke attended school at Berea College before attending and graduating from the US Naval Academy in 1949. In 1950, Deke married Ironton, Ohio, native JoAnne Kurtz, and the two of them began a journey together that would last 70 years. Deke was a proud Navy Seabee and served in Korea and Japan during the Korean War. After his service in the navy Deke and his wife JoAnne returned to Ohio to raise their family. In Columbus, Deke worked for North American Aviation (later Rockwell) and Ashland Chemical Company (from which he retired in 1991). Deke was known for his kindness, his sense of humor, his creativity and his dedication to his family. Deke and his wife were very social and had many friends who they loved dearly. Deke loved his country, was a master woodworker, building many beautiful pieces of furniture, and was an avid reader his whole life. Deke and wife JoAnne also traveled extensively, visiting many locations though out the U.S., Canada, Australia/New Zealand and western Europe. Deke was also very interested in military history, loved the Christmas season and was a lifelong photographer. Deke’s photos include his time at the U.S. Naval Academy, his years in the Navy, literally many thousands of family photo, 8mm home movies and vacation photos of the many locations that he and JoAnne visited. Photos of particular interest include photos of midshipmen assigned to the U.S.S. North Carolina taking a swim in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, panoramic photos of war-torn Seoul, South Korea, photos of historic sites in Britain and polaroid photos that were manipulated to look like water color paintings. He was an active member of Worthington Presbyterian Church, the Worthington Historical Society, VFW Post 2398 and a Riverside Hospital volunteer. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, JoAnne, and by his parents Adam and Clara Lang and his three sisters. He is survived by daughter Linda (Bill) Yost, son Robert Lang, granddaughter Michelle (Eric) Anderson, grandson Alan (Jean) Yost, great-grandson Henry Anderson, nephew William Hackworth and niece Dawna Boehmer. Calling hours are Thursday March 9, 1:00 to 2:00 PM at Worthington Presbyterian Church, 773 N High Street. Service will follow at the church at 2:00 PM, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Local VFW Post 2398 at PO Box 243 Worthington, OH 43085 or a charity of your choice.
Theodore Albert Curtin
Age 97, in Duxbury, Massachusetts, March 19, 2023.
Commander, U.S. Navy (retired), of Plymouth, formerly of Norwood, loving husband of the late Grace (Sansone) of Plymouth, devoted father of Theodore J. and Leonard T. of Plymouth, and the late Mary Catherine Curtin; loving son of the late Dr. Timothy J. and Albertine (Mailhiot), and stepson of the late Olive (Poirier) Curtin of Norwood; brother of Timothy J., Jr. of Stamford, CT, and the late Peter M. of Chula Vista, CA. A native of Norwood, Ted was a 1949 graduate of the United States Naval Academy. He served on active duty in the U.S. Navy from 1944 to 1969 including aboard the USS Juneau in the Korean War and as commanding officer of the submarine ARGONAUT (SS475) during the Cuban missile crisis. Following his naval career, he returned to his hometown and became a history teacher at Norwood High School from 1970-80. Retiring to Plymouth, he worked as a historical role-player aboard the Mayflower II for 17 years through 1997; and was active in social and political causes.
The most important event in Ted’s life was his marriage, in 1954, to Grace Sansone, his high school classmate. Their 68-year partnership of love, service and friendship touched many lives through their generosity and kindness.
A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in St. Catherine of Siena Parish, 547 Washington Street, Norwood on Tuesday March 28th, 2023 at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery, Norwood. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcome in memory of Ted to a charity of one’s choice, or an act of kindness that gives someone great happiness.
Gillooly Funeral Home
126 Walpole Street
Norwood, MA 02062
James H. Scott
Jim was born January 1, 1927, in Birmingham, Alabama, to Anthony and Louise Scott. He grew up in Jasper, Alabama, with his brother Wiley. When he was about seven or eight years old, his fondest wish for Christmas was a red bicycle. When he came down the stairs on Christmas morning to see his gift from Santa, he said, "I got a g#& d#@% blue tricycle!"
As he grew, he proudly became an Eagle Scout and worked in his mother's flower shop. He loved playing football, and once ignored an injury to his collarbone because his mom was watching, and he knew she would pull him from the game. If that happened, he would not have been able to earn his letterman's jacket.
His fascination with flying started when Jim was about fifteen years old during his first plane ride on a Barnstormer Biplane. During the flight, the engine began to quit and the pilot had to find a safe place to land, which ended up being in a cornfield. Luckily no one was injured, but the plane got pretty banged up, which caused the propeller to break off. Once the plane was towed away, Jim ran over to the site of the wreck and took one of the propellers, which he kept until this day. He was obviously not deterred and began flying lessons at the age of 16.
Jim graduated from the US Naval Academy in 1949, and received his Naval Aviation wings in 1950, and joined Fighter Squadron 112, where he flew a F9F-2 Panther Jet during the Korean conflict. Following this tour, he flew as an exchange aviator on the HMS Eagle in the Royal Navy, where he had the unusual privilege of participating in the Royal Navy flyover for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth.
He spent the next two years as an instructor in the basic and advanced air training commands. After completing the General Line Course at the US Naval Postgraduate School in 1958, he received orders to the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal as Flight Deck Officer, followed by other duties aboard USS Intrepid, USS Enterprise, USS Shangri La, and USS Saratoga.
In 1966, Jim attended the School of Naval Warfare, Naval War College and then reported to the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, D.C., for a year as the NATO Plans Officer. In 1969, he flew the A-4 Skyhawk as the Commander of Attack Carrier Wing Twenty-One on the USS Hancock off Vietnam, and then returned to Washington, D.C., as the Special Assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations for Prisoner of War and Missing in Action (POW-MIA) matters.
Jim then returned to Vietnam, taking command of the ammunition ship USS Butte. In 1974, he became the Commanding Officer of the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal, and in 1975, as a Rear Admiral, became the Commander of Tactical Wings, US Atlantic Fleet at the Naval Air Station Oceana, Virginia. In 1977, he was commander of NATO Iberian Atlantic Area in Portugal, and in 1979, he was the commander of the Norfolk Naval Base in Norfolk, Virginia.
He retired from the Navy in 1980. In his 31 years of proud service to his country, he was awarded three Legions of Merit, a Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star, five Air Medals for Valor, Two Navy Commendation Medals, and several Korean and Vietnam campaign medals. Although he was always proud of his service, he couldn't share all of his stories from the Navy, because according to Jim, "they were too classified to tell."
Jim was married to Jean Seevers Scott for 55 years. They met on a blind date while Jim was in flight training at NAS Corpus Christi. Before their date, Jean had undergone oral surgery, which meant she had difficulty eating and speaking. After their date ended, Jim said, "she was the cheapest but also the best date he'd ever had!" They enjoyed traveling and seeing the world together, and made wonderful memories during the military moves throughout Jim's career. He deeply loved his family and taught their three children to finish what you start and to always do your best.
In his free time, Jim loved dove hunting, reading, collecting model cars, building model trains - complete with landscapes, and barbequing. He always said he made the best chili in the world. He enjoyed a good meal of steak or ribs, and all of Jean's gourmet cooking. With his sweet tooth, he liked banana pudding, Blue Bell vanilla ice cream or a Snickers candy bar, washed down with tea, Coke, or the occasional martini.
He loved listening to Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline, Herb Alpert, and Tijuana Brass. In fact, one of the family's most cherished memories of Jim was when they lived in Rhode Island in the mid 1960s. There were several feet of snow on the ground, and it was so cold outside. Jim opened all the windows and danced and sang to Herb Alpert's music while barbequing outside. He loved watching football and rooted for the Cowboys, but especially enjoyed Alabama and Navy games. His family will remember him rooting, "go Navy, beat Army!" They will also fondly recall him saying, "Roger that," "Good on ya," and imitating the Pillsbury Dough Boy's giggle every time he was poked in the tummy.
Jim was a very generous and humble man. He had a compassionate heart and was passionate about helping others. This along with a love of good BBQ, led Jim to found the Corpus Christi Mustangs, a group of local businessmen and community leaders who have banded together to provide Texas-sized barbeques for worthy charity causes, in 1988. To date, the Corpus Christi Mustangs have raised over nine million dollars for various charities. He was a member of the USO of South Texas, the Navy League, Boy Scouts of America, Rotary Club, and the Kiwanis Club. He also played a crucial role in bringing the USS Lexington to Corpus Christi. Currently, the "Blue Ghost" museum is one of the biggest attractions in South Texas.
Jim leaves behind his daughter Nina Manville; his son James Scott, Jr.; his daughter and son-in-law Margie and Severo Garza; his grandchildren Jason (and Cindy) Mulkey, Victoria (and Tommy) Evans, and Micaela Garza; and his great-grandchildren Sierra Mulkey and Thomas "Little Man" Evans. He is reunited with his beloved wife Jean, his parents Anthony and Louise Scott, and his brother Wiley Scott. His family would like to thank his caregivers, family, friends, and the Corpus Christi Mustangs.
To honor the life of Rear Admiral Scott, a memorial service will begin at 11 am followed by Final Military Honors on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the Church of the Good Shepherd. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Corpus Christi Mustangs, Good Samaritan Rescue Mission in Corpus Christi, or the YWCA of Corpus Christi.
Joel Rabinowitz
97, February 11, 2023; beloved husband and best friend of Frances (nee Rothman) for 70 wonderful years; loving father of Dr Arthur (Dr Maria Ponsillo), David (Randie) and Dr Richard (Lori); cherished "Poppie" and grandpa to Ben and Rebecca, Michelle (Keith) Goldstein, Mark, Josh, Jacob (Molly), and Lena; much loved great grandpa of Parker and Chase Goldstein, wonderful brother, uncle and friend to all who knew him. Joel joined the US Navy in May 1944, went on to officer training in Annapolis, MD 1945-1949, was a commissioned Lieutenant and served from 1949-1954. He was a Korean War Veteran serving in the Quartermaster Corp earning the National Defense Ribbon, Navy Occupation WWII Ribbon, Navy Citation American Theater and the WWII Victory Ribbon. Memorial donations in his honor may be made to the Friends of the Jewish Chapel – US Navy, www.fojcusna.org/contribute. Funeral Service, Monday, February 13, 2023; 10 AM at North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, 1175 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, IL. Interment Shalom Memorial Park. For the link to view the service, shiva information and to leave condolences: www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520
Robert Evans Fellowes
Commander Robert "Bob" Evans Fellowes, USN (Ret.), of Williamsburg, VA, passed away on May 24.
Bob was born in Westfield, NJ, on July 21, 1927. The family moved to Tucson, AZ when he was 9. After graduating from Tucson High School, he spent one year at the University of Arizona from Tucson High School in 1944 and received a congressional appointment to enter the United States Naval Academy in 1945.
Following graduation in June 1949, he was stationed on USS Randall (APA-224, home ported at Little Creek Amphibious Base in Virginia Beach) until entering flight training in 1950. He received his wings in November 1951, served in two anti-submarine squadrons: VS-22 and VS-32, and was Commanding Officer of VRC-40 Carrier Onboard Delivery. He served on USS Randolph (CVS-15) as Navigator, then as Executive Officer, and was Commanding Officer when the ship was decommissioned in 1969.
In the summer of 1954, Bob married Mary Jane Rumfelt in Norfolk, VA, prior to entering the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. He received a Master of Science degree in Chemistry from M.I.T. in 1957 and was a member of Sigma Xi, a Scientific and Engineering Research Honor Society.
After his retirement from the Navy in 1975, Bob studied accounting at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, and then worked for a C.P.A. firm in Virginia Beach until 1979, at which time he joined the faculty of Christopher Newport College (now University) in Newport News, VA, where he taught Accounting until retirement in 1995.
In addition to his wife of 68 years, Bob is survived by 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren: Ted and his wife Dagmar and their 3 children: Peter, Thomas and Elisabeth; Lisa, (Jim Keck) their son Ryan; Paul, his two daughters, Tori and Jane; and David (Monica).
Bob was preceded in death by both of his brothers, RADM Frederick G. Fellowes, USN, (retired), USNA Class of ’53; and CAPT John H. Fellowes, USN (retired), USNA Class of ’56.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Williamsburg House of Mercy or the charity of your choice.
Thomas J. Walters
Thomas J. “Tom” Walters, 97, was called home by God on Monday, July 3, 2023, may he rest in eternal peace. Tom was born in New York City in 1926 and raised in Muncie, Indiana, by his parents Mae and Glenn Walters. He resided in Newport News and Smithfield for over 45 years, including the past 35 years. As an active member of First United Methodist Church in Newport News, he was a member of United Methodist Men and the FUMC mission board for several years. He believed deeply in God that the Holy Spirit watched over him and blessed him by putting the right people in his life at critical times.
Tom earned an appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy on merit, graduating in 1949 with a Bachelor of Science degree. The Navy sent him to M.I.T., where he earned a Master of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering degree and a Master of Nuclear Engineering degree. He joined Admiral Rickover’s Naval Reactors group and became a vital team member in building the modern nuclear Navy stationed at the Newport News Shipyard. He retired from the U.S. Navy Reserve with the rank of Commander.
In 1971, Tom joined a private engineering consulting firm in Washington, D.C., where he worked on complex engineering projects for the U.S. Navy, large international energy companies, and utilities worldwide. Upon retirement, Tom and his wife, Libby, built a house in Smithfield and later moved to The Chesapeake Retirement Community in Newport News in 2003. In retirement, Tom shared Libby’s passion for lifelong learning, travel, sailing, and reading on various subjects. Additionally, he advocated for protecting local marine life and campaigned on behalf of a candidate for a U.S. Senate seat from Virginia. He was a true patriot, devoted husband, beloved father, and friend to all who crossed his path.
Survivors include two daughters, Deborah W. Barnett, O.D. (William) of Virginia Beach, Rebecca J. Latta (Michael) of High Point, NC; two sons, Edward T. Walters (Barbara) of Naples, FL, Kenneth B. Walters (Lynn) of Damascus, MD; four grandchildren, Thomas C. Barnett, R.N.
(Veronica, M.D.) of Spokane, WA; Rachel A. Barnett of Virginia Beach; Michelle Hilger (Kris) of Spofford, NH; Susan M. Walters (Robert Gazdzicki) of Beach Park, IL; and great-grandchild Harriet Barnett. He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth J. “Libby” Walters, and daughter, Mildred M. Walters.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at 10:00 am at The Chesapeake Retirement Community, 955 Harpersville Rd., N.N., VA 23601. The family requests that in place of flowers, donations may be made to First United Methodist Church Foundation, 10246 Warwick Blvd., N.N., VA 23601, or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601.
Edward Irwin McQuiston
Commander Edward I. McQuiston Jr., USN (Ret.), died on 15 April 2023 in La Jolla, CA.
Born 1926 in Hawaii to Dorothea and Captain Edward I. McQuiston ’21, “Ed” was 15 and living in Honolulu when Pearl Harbor was attacked. In the days following, he patrolled Waikiki as a Boy Scout enforcing blackout orders. He graduated from Coronado High School in San Diego (1943) and enlisted in the Navy. Ed graduated with the Naval Academy Class of 1949.
His first assignment was on Roosevelt. He became a naval aviator and was deployed in two wars. He flew combat missions along the North Korean coast and headed the Weapons Department on Ranger (CV-61) in the Gulf of Tonkin. Squadrons VP-812, VP-29, VP-17 and VAHM-10 took him to Kodiak AK, Whidbey Island, WA, Astugi, Japan, and Kwajalein Island. He was a flight instructor in Pensacola, FL, and a branch head at Naval Air Systems Command in Washington, DC. He earned a master’s degree in management at the Naval Postgraduate School, and later returned as a curricular officer for the Management program. He retired from the Navy in 1971 after 27 years of service to his country.
From 1971-1991, Ed worked for the California Society of Certified Public Accountants Education Division as the Director of Management Education. He worked in program development of management, self-study and personal finance planning.
Ed became interested in photography in high school. Starting with a $2 Kodak “Brownie” and later, a twin lens reflex camera, it was his lifelong hobby. In black and white and color, he shared his passion for life in movies and prints. He became known as the “official” photographer at Casa de Manaña, regularly hanging portraits of residents, their pets and ocean life. He played golf into his 90s and always had candy in his bag for sharing. A crack bowler when younger, he took up video bowling and even scored a perfect game. Ed was quick to laugh and made friends easily. He was devoted to his family and always put them first.
Ed met his wife, Bonnie, in 8th grade. They went to a school dance costumed as half of a hot air balloon basket. When they danced together, they seemed to be drifting aloft. Ed never forgot that date. They celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary February 2023.
Bonnie died 12 days before Ed. They are survived by their daughters, Connie and Barbara; and grandson, Fergus.
