Richard E. Nazareth

HAMPTON - Richard E. Nazareth, departed this life on Oct. 22, 2009, surrounded by his family and friends.
He was born in Warwick County, Va., to the late Robert E. and Isadore Nazareth and was the grandson of the late Rev. Robert H. Nazareth who served as pastor of First Baptist Church Denbigh.
Richard attended Morrison High School in Warwick County, Va., and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and a Master of Arts degree in School Administration from Hampton Institute (University).
From an early age, Richard followed his call of service to his fellow man by serving his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He retired as an officer, having obtained the rank of CW 4, after 41 years of active duty and reserve military service. During his military career, Richard received numerous military honors.
After his service to his country, Richard returned to the Hampton Roads area and dedicated 31 years of service to Hampton Institute (University). He served most of those years in the capacity of Director of Food Service.
Richard actively served the community in the following capacities: Webelos Den Leader, Worshipful Master for Zedekiah Lodge #167, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Life Member), NAACP (Life Member), Quarter Century Club (Treasurer), Wythe Coalition (Secretary) and Hampton University Class of 1954 (Treasurer).
Richard started his service to God early in life through his membership at First Baptist Church Denbigh. His service to The Lord continued at First Baptist Church of Hampton where he was a member of the Albert H. Holder Men's Choir, Comfort Choir, HELPing Hands Committee, Circle of Love and worked with a Night's Welcome. His religious dedication led him to lovingly restore Blooming Zion Baptist Church which was pastored by his great-grandfather Reverend Moses Banks. As a result of his efforts, the vision of Reverend Moses Banks has been preserved and the original building serves as a church today. Although he never sought recognition for his acts of service, he received many acknowledgements for his work in the community and at church.
Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Hazel B. Nazareth; his brothers, Phillip, Robert and Russell Nazareth; and sisters, Louise Smith, Edna Howard and Thelma Slade.
He leaves to cherish his legacy, his brother, Ralph Nazareth (Doris); his wife, Karen E. Nazareth; and his children, Michael, Ramona, Pamela and Melissa, who have benefited from his wisdom and vast experiences. He will also be missed by his stepson, James Hamlett; his stepgranddaughter, Jarena Hamlett; his mother-in-law, Delores Davis; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
Richard always said that charity began at home. He served his family and community well through the example that he set and the life that he lived.
The viewing will take place from noon to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, 2009, at Cooke Bros. Funeral Home, 1601 27th Street, Newport News. The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Omega Ceremony will begin at 6 p.m. Funeral services will take place on Friday, Oct. 30, 2009, at noon at First Baptist Church of Hampton, 229 North King Street, Hampton, Va. Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cookebros.com.
The final care of our loved one has been entrusted to the staff of Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.