John Royal "Jimmy" Preddy Jr.

John R. Preddy Jr. VIRGINIA BEACH - John Royal "Jimmy" Preddy Jr., 88, left this earth to be with Jesus Oct. 28, 2008. The oldest of nine children, he was born Sept. 4, 1920, in Granville County, North Carolina, to John and Alphaeus Preddy. John loved his country and was proud of the time that he served in the U. S. Navy during World War II. In 1944, he married the love of his life, Mildred, who survives him along with their three children, Katherine Daskivich and her husband William, John R. "Roy" Preddy III and his wife Dinah and Joan Place and her husband Lawrence; seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; sisters, Janet and Frances; and brothers, Troy and Paul. He was predeceased by sisters, Ettie Cathryn and Janie; and brothers, Bobby and Grady. His servant's heart was apparent to all who knew him, whether family, friends, casual acquaintances, or members of his much loved church, Bethel Baptist Church in Chesapeake. Some have called John one of the most Christ-like people they have known. Indeed, he was a humble man who always put the needs of others before himself. Surely, by now, he has heard the words of his Lord and Savior, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." John's homegoing celebration will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at Graham Funeral Home, 1112 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake, with Pastor Reggie Hester and Pastor Chip Roberson officiating. Burial will follow in the Bethel Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethel Baptist Church Building Fund, 1832 Elbow Road, Chesapeake, VA 23320. The family will receive friends at the funeral home today from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Please share a memory with the family at www.grahamfuneralhome.com.