Charles E. Willett Jr.

Charles E. Willett, Jr, 64, passed away peacefully in his home in Suffolk, Virginia on January 16, 2025. He was known by his family as “Bud”, and his friends and co-workers called him “Chuck”. His passing comes as a deep loss, yet we find comfort in the memories of the everlasting love we shared with him. He was a cherished member of our family, known for his gentleness, infectious laugh and a heart of gold. He had a very quiet nature and was a man of few words. Even as a child, he was referred to as “the little old man”. He is survived by the love of his life, Linda Sumrell, who he shared cherished memories with for over 20 years. His also survived by his sisters, Dara Willett, Karen Willett Tyree; his nephews, Jason Jaeger, Justin Willett, and Jacob Tyree; niece Hannah Tyree; great nephews Jude Rivera, and Jonah Tyree; and beloved fur babies, Salty and Pepper. He was predeceased by his grandparents S/Major Joseph and S/Major Agnes Willett who were Salvation Army officers in Portsmouth, Virginia for many years; as well as his parents Charles and Anna Mae Willett; aunt Elizabeth Willett; uncle Joseph Willett, Jr and his wife Carolyn Willett; brother Stephen Willett; his sister Charlene Willett. Chuck graduated from Churchland High School. After graduation he pursued his first real job at Virginia International Terminals. He started as a runner and eventually retired as a cargo supervisor with a dedicated career of over 40 years. He made many lifetime friends and was fondly thought of by many of them. Our beloved Chuck found the greatest joy in the simplest things. He loved to listen to music from the 60s and 70s and also loved watching the classic film The Wizard of Oz and it's star Judy Garland. He also enjoyed picking crabs on a hot summer day. In his retirement, he loved spending quiet nights with his sweetheart Linda and their dogs Salty and Pepper. They often visited their trailer in the Outer Banks and enjoyed the serenity there together. A celebration of his life will be held at Loving Funeral Home, 3225 Academy Ave. Portsmouth, VA 23703, on Thursday, January 23rd at 2:00 PM. He was a true animal lover. In honor of his love of animals please consider a memorial donation to an animal rescue of your choice.