Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James ALSTON Obituary
He was preceded in death by his parents; sister; and his first wife, Clara Little Alston.
Mr. Alston was born in Forrest City, Ark.; graduated from St. Paul's College, Lawrenceville, Va., in 1939, with an industrial arts degree. He was employed by the Virginia School for the Deaf & Blind in Hampton and later worked for Hampton City Schools, before working full time at Whittaker Memorial Hospital in Newport News, retiring as hospital engineer after more than 40 years. He later served as a consultant for the construction of Newport News General Hospital.
Among his many affiliations were Union Light Lodge No. 268 of F&AM Masons, Eastern Seaboard Plumbing & Heating Assn., Office of Human Affairs, and a founding board member of Peninsula Institute for Community Health.
He was a member of St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, where he actively served in many capacities, earning special recognition in 1981 and 2007 for his years of dedicated involvement and service. In lieu of flowers, Mr. Alston requested donations be made to his church.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Vernelle Marks Alston; daughter, Glenda Alston Geer (James); son, William B. Marks (Kaye); two grandchildren; a host of other relatives and friends.
His funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday, July 11, at St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, 2515 Marshall Ave., Newport News. Family and friends will assemble by 9:15 a.m., at 841 20th Street, Newport News. Viewing will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, and at the church on Sunday one hour before the service. A private burial will be Monday, at Hampton Memorial Gardens. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James ALSTON
6 Entries
Marian Travis
July 11, 2010
Please accept my sincere sympathy at the passing of Mr. "J.O" Alston. May fond memories help during this time.
Marian H. Travis
Marjorie Emerson Lawrence & Family
July 9, 2010
Vernell, Glenda and Billy, as well as the entire Alston family know that we all loved J.O and will certainly be enrichecd by the part that he played in all of the lives of the people of St. Augustine's. May the many memories be a comfort to you at this time.
Dorothy Owens
July 9, 2010
Vernelle, Glenda and family our thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you all. We are sorry that we are unable to be there with you. We will miss talking with cousin Alston monthly, he was a wonderful person. Our love will be with you always.
Dorothy Owens. Frances Gibson, and family
Col Sidney Ricks, USAR (Ret)
July 9, 2010
To Mrs Alston and family, I offer my condolences and prayers. I cannot remember Mr Alston not being a part of my life. His smile and subtle laugh was always a sign that I was home and safe. From my earliest memories of The Virginia State School, there was Mr Alston, “J.O.” to my folks and friends. He, along with many of the VSS family, was an intricate part of my village growing up. You could learn things from Mr Alston just watching him. I took those lessons with me around the world. I find joy in knowing he is at peace and reaping the rewards of a wonderful life. A life of service to others. He was a real “Prince of a Gentleman.” I will find comfort knowing that one day I will see that smile again.
Delora Atkins
July 8, 2010
To the family of my dear cousin, Brother Alston,
I pray daily for the repose of "Brother's" soul. Rest in the knowledge that God will give you peace and comfort as you mourn.
Lana Geer
July 8, 2010
Glenda and family: My thoughts and prayers are with you upon today. God promises that He will always be with you even through flood waters and raging waves. Even now, may He comfort you during this time of sorrow and mourning, and fill you with gladness, joy, and peace. Love, Your sister-in-law, Lana M. Geer
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in James ALSTON's name
Memorial Events
for James ALSTON
How to support James's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor James ALSTON's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
