Walter L Eason

     Walter L. Eason, 92, the first child of the late Timothy and Frances Eason of Sunbury, NC, peacefully departed this life on April 4, 2025, at Nansemond Pointe and Rehabilitation Care in Suffolk, VA.

     Born on July 13, 1932, and raised in Gates County, Walter was educated in the Gates County public schools, where he graduated before being drafted into the United States Army. He served honorably for two years during the Korean War, a chapter in his life that reflected his deep sense of duty and patriotism.

     Upon returning home, Walter married Thelma Gatling Eason, and together they raised four children.

     He was a dedicated provider and an industrious man who wore many hats throughout his life. As an entrepreneur, Walter owned and operated a truck driving business. He also worked as a taxicab driver in Virginia and held a long-standing position at Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Company, where he served faithfully from 1967 until his retirement in 1993 as a Deck Grating Supervisor in the X43 Department.

     Retirement did not slow Walter down. He pursued his passion for carpentry and property management, building and renovating homes he maintained as rental properties. He took pride in his work and in providing homes for others.

     A man of undeniable style, Walter was a fashion icon in his own right—always dressed sharp from head to toe, adorned with the latest clothes, shoes, hats, and jewelry. A true car enthusiast, Walter loved Cadillacs and always drove the newest models with pride. Walter was a member of the Silver Riders Motorcycle Club of Hampton Roads. He enjoyed motorcycle riding and was famously the oldest active rider in the club. He captured his personality perfectly in the slogan he published on his annual calendars: "Motorcycle Rider and Cadillac Driver." It was a true reflection of how he embraced life with joy, confidence, and flair.

     Walter later married Elaine Askew Eason, and they shared many happy and fulfilling years together until her passing.

     At an early age and all of his youthful life, Walter was an active member of St. John AME Zion Church. He continued to build on his faith after locating to Suffolk, VA. Being a devoted man of faith, Walter was ordained as a Deacon and served in multiple capacities at St. Timothy Baptist Church in Suffolk, VA, including as a trustee and Sunday School teacher. In his later years, he became a faithful member of Antioch United Church of Christ in Suffolk, VA, while also attending Balm of Gilead Missionary Baptist Church. He was committed to worship and could be found attending both services every Sunday.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Elaine, a brother Winfield Eason, sisters Carrie Ingram and Thelma M. Cash, and his grandson McRell Rashad Eason.

     Walter leaves behind a loving legacy carried on by his children: Donald Eason of Suffolk, VA, Arnold Eason of Sunbury, NC, Yvonne Eason of Sunbury, NC, and Cheryl (Tracy) Hawk of Suffolk, VA; a bonus daughter, Selena Askew of Anguilla, British Caribbean; eight grandchildren: Waltena Eason, Senecia McNeil (Mike), Arnesha Eason, Arnold Raphael Eason, LaToya Leary, Mateal Jenkins, Aaron Eason, and Marcuis Saunders; nineteen great grandchildren;  two sisters, Alma Goodman and Maxine Rayson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and dear friends.

     Walter L. Eason was a man of integrity, style, service, and love. His presence lit up every room, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.

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