Esma Leigh

Esma H. Leigh PORTSMOUTH - Esma Hoggard Leigh, 93, formerly of Shea Terrace, and more recently of Machipongo, Va., passed away peacefully Monday, Sept. 7, 2009. Born May 3, 1916, to the late Reginald and Elizabeth Parker Hoggard, she resided in the home where she was born for more than 85 years. Mrs. Leigh was a loving wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and great-grandmother, and was truly a friend to all. She was predeceased by her husband of 34 years, Welcome Berdick Leigh Sr.; a son, Welcome B. "Dickie" Leigh Jr.; grandson, Thomas Wayne Leigh Jr.; two sisters, Katherine Ballard and Edith Worrell; and four brothers, Reginald, Leroy, Thomas, and Mark Hoggard. As long as her health allowed, she was an active and faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church and at the Maude Bailey Sunday school class. Mrs. Leigh retired after more than 35 years as secretary of the Portsmouth Moose Lodge, where she was a member as well, and was loved and cared for by all who she came into contact with. She was also a member of the Eastern Star. Survivors include her loving son, Thomas W. Leigh and wife Bettie, with whom she resided; daughter-in-law, Karin O'Neal Leigh; three grandchildren, Kelli Leigh McGlynn and husband Patrick, Laurie Leigh Lawrence and husband Aaron, and Amy Leigh Prewitt and husband David; five great- grandchildren, Austin Preston Leigh, Madison Marie Leigh, Spencer Leigh Deaver, Blake O'Neal McGlynn and Madison McGlynn; several nieces and nephews. A graveside service will be held today, Sept. 9, at 2 p.m. in Oak Grove Cemetery by the Rev. Philip Parker. Sturtevant Funeral Home, Portsmouth Blvd. Chapel, is handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Calvary Baptist Church, 2117 London Blvd., Portsmouth, VA 23707. www.SturtevantFuneralHome.com.