Essie Mae Riddick DeLoatch, 89, departed this life on Friday, Sept. 22, 2017, in her home. A lifelong resident of Suffolk, she was born Jan. 8, 1928, as the third child of the Rev. Charlie Riddick and Cora Ballance Riddick.

She received her educational training in the public schools of Nansemond County. She worked for Planters Peanut Company for more than 30 years and retired in 1985.

Mrs. DeLoatch was a devoted member of Metropolitan Baptist Church, where she was a deaconess. She was also an active member of the Harvest Missionary Circle, Senior Choir and Kitchen Committee.

Mrs. DeLoatch’s pleasant demeanor, kindness and willingness to care for all made her a beloved figure to family and friends. She was well known for her extraordinary cooking and making sure no one left her home without a meal. Left to cherish her memory are her loving and devoted children, Charles E. DeLoatch, Earl H. DeLoatch and Sandra J. DeLoatch, all of Suffolk; and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 58 years, David W. DeLoatch Sr.; daughter, Brenda J. DeLoatch; sons, David W. DeLoatch Jr. and Johnny L. DeLoatch Sr.; brother, Walter E. Riddick; and sister, Thelma Riddick.

Visitation will be held Friday, Sept. 29, 2017, at 10:30 a.m., and the funeral at noon, at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 125 County St., Suffolk. Interment will be in Carver Memorial Cemetery. A repast will be held at the church following the funeral. Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home Inc.