MILDRED C. STAPLES

Mildred Cummins "Mickey" Staples, 93, of Colonial Heights, passed away peacefully at Brighter Living Assisted Living Facility on Sunday, November 23, 2014. She was the widow of William "Bill" Staples, and was born to Harry and Bessie Megginson Cummins on August 10, 1921. Mickey was preceded in death by her parents, and husband, as well as her brother, Calvin Cummins; and sisters, Margueritte Merten and Marian Moore. She grew up in Colonial Heights and raised her family in Ettrick. Her family and friends are left with many warm memories of her gracious hospitality, sense of humor, strong faith, and delicious cooking. She loved so many people, many of whom she met while working as a dental assistant for Dr. William Russell in Petersburg, or through Mt. Calvary Baptist Church (formerly Ettrick Baptist Church).

She is survived by her two sons, Ronnie Staples of Colonial Heights and Steve Staples of Williamsburg; and their wives, Jo Carol Staples and Barbara Staples. She also leaves behind five granddaughters and four great-granddaughters, her "precious dolls" as she always called them, Tammy Carwile (David), Wendy Myers (Bill), Jennifer Lausier (Chad), Kelsey Bottoms (Scott), Audrey Cabezas (Javier), Ashley and Christy Carwile; and Melanie and Mackenzie Myers. She is also survived by one brother, Clay Cummins of Springfield, Virginia; and a number of beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Family was very important to her and she loved them dearly.

A funeralsService will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, November 26, 2014, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, with the Reverend Scott Price and Pastor Billy Myers officiating. Burial will follow in Southlawn Memorial Park, Prince George. The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, November 25, 2014, at the funeral home. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.