Edward Bruce Speers

The Honorable Edward Bruce Speers of Chesapeake, VA, went with the Lord on the morning of March 18, 2010. He was born in Churchland, Norfolk County, and was a life-long member of the Churchland Baptist Church. Edward is predeceased by his wife of 67 years, Audrey Dennis Speers, his parents H.W. Grady Speers, Sr. and Louise Bruce Speers, brothers H.W. Grady Speers, Jr., Jamie S. Speers, and grandson Edward V. Meyer. He is survived by his daughter, Lorraine S. Meyer, brother, W. Bruce Speers, grandsons, Troy A. Meyer and Andrew D. Meyer, great-grandson, Kenneth Taylor, as well as many nieces and nephews. Edward began his life of service to the country and community he loved by joining the U.S. Navy in 1937. During World War II, Edward served his country as a Chief Gunner?s Mate in the Asiatic Fleet. While on the USS Whipple, Edward was one of nine men who risked their lives swimming in the darkness and heavy swells to rescue survivors from the USS Langley and the USS Pecos. He also served on the USS DeHaven until a torpedo sunk the ship on February 1, 1943 near Guadalcanal and was later assigned to the USS Oakland until 1945. After traveling the world, Edward retired from the Navy after 24 years of service and returned to Norfolk County. After retiring from the Navy, Edward owned and operated Speers Restaurant in Churchland with his wife Audrey from 1961 to 1977. Edward served his community as a member of the Chesapeake City Planning Commission for four years. He also served as a Councilman on the Chesapeake City Council from 1974 to 1978, and again from 1980 to 1984. In 1999 he retired as Superintendent of the Western Branch Mosquito Control after 15 years of service. Edward was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle and friend. He was also an avid sportsman and bird hunter. Edward never knew a stranger and was known for his quick smile and easy laugh. He was a member of many organizations, including the Churchland Masonic Lodge No 276, the VFW, Fleet Reserve Association No. 40, and the Isaac Walton League of America, where he served as past president. The family would like to thank Suffolk Heartland Hospice and Gina James for their devoted care as well Heartland Home Health staff for the care provided to both Audrey and Edward throughout the years. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Salvation Army. A graveside funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday in Churchland Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends in Loving Funeral Home, Churchland Chapel Saturday from 5-6:30p.m.