Herbert Chester Emerson Sr.

HAMPTON - Herbert Chester Emerson Sr. was born on Tuesday, July 10, 1934, in Norfolk, Va., to the late Albert F. and Elsie Emerson. He departed this life on Saturday, July 10, 2004, at Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center. A resident of Hampton Roads, he served 20 years in the United States Air Force and retired. He worked for NASA, NOB and NNSY, Portsmouth as a security police officer and retired once more. His parents, Albert F. and Elsie E. Emerson, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Fannie (Cypress) Emerson; one sister, Jacquelyn 'Jackie' Emerson of Greensboro, N.C. He fell in love with Fannie and was married on Feb. 26, 1955. He was a devoted, loving husband and father, loved and respected by all who knew him. He always had a positive outlook on life and was a true leader. Throughout his years, Herbert enjoyed spending time with friends at Hardees, bowling teammates, putting large puzzles together and listening to a wide variety of eclectic music. In his younger years, he was a member of St. Paul C.M.E. Church where he served in numerous capacities. As the years passed, he joined Bethel Temple Assembly of God where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He leaves to cherish his memory three daughters and one son, Herbione (John) Smith of Rockford, Ill., Faye (Darrell) Sims of Carrollton, Va., Herbert (Sharon) Emerson Jr. of Phoenix, Ariz., and Karen (Rodney) Price of Hampton, Va.; also four grandchildren, Trey, Ebony, Rachel and Terry, and two great-grandchildren, Rakhem and Destiny. Viewing will be held from noon to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 15, at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, with a wake service to follow from 7 to 8 p.m. The Rev. Ralph Cypress will conduct the funeral at 11 a.m. on Friday, July 16, at Bethel Temple Assembly of God at 1705 Todds Lane, Hampton, Va. Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.