John “Chum” Wallace Springer, 82, passed peacefully on Monday, June 24, 2024. Chum was born November 7, 1941 to Vivian and Whilldin Springer in Norfolk, Virginia.

After graduating from Oscar F. Smith High School in South Norfolk, Virginia, he was employed by C&P Telephone Company/Bell Atlantic for 32 years, retiring as a supervisor. People who knew Chum will remember him for his passion for fishing, hunting, gardening, and cooking. He was a charter member of the Virginia Beach Drummers Surf Fishing Team and a member of the NC Beach Buggy Association. He spent many hours hunting and appreciating the outdoors with his good friend Tommy Hart. He found great peace working in his garden and planting vegetables with his grandchildren. Chum was a lifelong fan of his beloved Boston Red Sox and was rarely seen without his Boston ballcap. He enjoyed 46 years as a Master Mason and had the privilege of leading the South Norfolk Masonic Lodge 339. He also loved cooking for his Chesapeake Shrine Club. Chum was happiest when sharing his stories and passions with those he loved.

Left to celebrate his life are his loving wife of 59 years, DiAnn Chadwick, and three daughters, Jodi Diamond, Jill Key (Ray), and Jenny Stanley (Doug). He was a proud Granddaddy to Chadwick, Dana Wallace, Elena (Tyler), Jenna (Keaton), Whilldin, and great-grandson Jesse. He is also survived by his brother, A.E. Doc Springer; sisters, Marie Judah, Joyce Robinson, and Gay Judah; and sister-in-law Donna Zimmerly. He was a loving uncle to David, Todd, Angie, Ralph, Billy, John Cory, DeAnn, Mindy, Art, and Megan. He will be missed by many other family, lifelong friends, and neighbors.

Please join the family on Monday, July 15, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach, where Chum was a member since 1974, for a visitation at 10 a.m. and a memorial service at 11 a.m. Honoring his final wish, Chum’s ashes will be spread at his beloved home in South Creek, NC, where he spent his happiest summers surrounded by family, creating cherished memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Children’s Hospital of the King’s Daughters (CHKD) at Attn: Philanthropy Department, PO Box 2156, Norfolk, VA 23501-2156 or online at www.chkd.org/give.