William Edward Horsley prevailed in his long battle against a myriad of health problems on Jan. 12, 2009. He “won” this fight by exhibiting to his final breath the grace, kind humor and gentle spirit that characterized his 86 years.
Born May 3, 1922 and raised in Gloucester, Va., Edward was the youngest of two sons. His father was James Herman Horsley. Edward’s mother, Virginia Catherine Walker Horsley, died when he was very young.
Edward served proudly in the U.S. Navy and often spoke of his service experience, all the while his patriotism never wavering.
He met and married the former Olive Hingerty. She passed with cancer in 1980. Their marriage was truly a testament to love, loyalty and devotion.
Edward and Olive raised three sons; William Edward Horsley Jr., and wife, Jackie, of Ahoskie, N.C., Donald Henry Horsley and wife, Diane, of Virginia Beach, Barry Cahoon Horsley and wife, Pam, of Oklahoma. Also, he is survived by eight adoring grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and special nieces and nephews; brother, Doswell Horsley, of Gloucester.
Edward was a Christian and a long time active member of Bethlehem Christian Church in Suffolk. His seat in heaven has long been assured.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for those that so desire to please make donations to Bethlehem Christian Church for the W. E. Horsley Sr., Memorial Fund, 1549 Holland Road, Suffolk, VA 23434.
A funeral service will be conducted Thursday at 11 a.m. at the graveside in Holly Lawn Cemetery by the Rev. Jonathan A. Dundalow, followed by a “Celebration of Life” reception at Bethlehem Christian Church. The family will receive friends in the R.W. Baker & Co. Funeral Home & Crematory, 509 W. Washington St. Suffolk, VA 23434, Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
The family wishes to extend a special expression of heartfelt gratitude to all of Edward’s care providers at Georgian Manor, Chesapeake Health Care and Elder Care and also to the family’s loving friends and neighbors for all of their care and support through these difficult times. Condolences may be registered at www.rwbakerfh.com.