Our Patriarch, Francis H. Eudailey, Sr. passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of January 14, 2021. His life spanned 95 plus years. He was born on a farm outside of Chase City, Virginia on June 5, 1925, as the second child of Annie and Aubrey Eudailey. He was also welcomed to the family by his sister, Florence. It was here, on the farm, he was raised and spent his formative years. He attended and graduated from Chase City High School and was a member of New Hope Baptist Church in Skipwith, VA.

Francis attended Bluefield College after high school and on returning home, joined the Navy “so I wouldn’t have to go into the Army”, in 1944. He served aboard the USS Wisconsin, as a member of the first crew and often spoke of the Wisconsin as “his baby” and was proud of it being located at Nauticus in Norfolk. It was there, his 90^th birthday was celebrated with his children, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

After marriage to Lillie Jones and 4 children, he moved to Newport News, where he eventually joined the Newport News Shipyard as an electrician. He and Mom had 2 more children and stayed in Newport News until they moved to Butternut Drive in Hampton n the early 60’s. Dad remained here for the remainder of his life. He could often be found tinkering in the garage or visiting with his son’s friends, as they rode up on their motorcycles. He was a big fan of motorcycles, especially Harleys and his love was passed on to his children.

Dad and family joined West Hampton Baptist Church in 19567 and he continued his membership through out his life. He loved teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir and serving God any way he could in missions as a Deacon and serving on many other committees.

Not only did Dad love motorcycles and his church, but he loved visiting the homebound, playing golf and his grandchildren. He drove to the Outer Banks yearly to spend a week with the family playing cards, playing golf and having his birthday dinner of oysters at Miller’s on the sound. Fried oysters and sweet tea were favorites of his.

He is predeceased not only by his parents and sister, but his eldest son, Francs Jr. (Frank) and great-grandson, Andrew. His survivors include daughters, Jenny Keasey (Scott) of Salisbury, MD and Kathy Nader (Phil) of Williamsburg; sons, Ronnie Eudailey (Linda Bishop), Tim Eudailey (Kayla), both of Hampton and Dan Eudailey (Renate Ragans) of Gloucester and daughter-in-law Nanci Eudailey. Dad was blessed with 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great -grandchildren. He was loved by many and he loved many. His smile and laugh were contagious.

Thank you to the many staff that assisted in his care for the past 9 years at Virginia Oncology, Hampton office, Dr. Kruger; his favorite Nurse Practitioner, Kim Heath and RN Tiffany. There were many staff in the lab, office and “back area” whom are not named, but thanked as much. He loved you all. Also thank you to Personal Touch Hospice for seeing to our needs as a family, so that Pop could be cared for in his home, and also thank you to Linda for spending hours with Pop and caring for him until the end.

A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date yet to be determined.

Rest in Peace, Pop and we will see you on the other side.

Cremation Society of Virginia-Newport News assisted the family with their arrangements.