William Diggs Jr.

William R. Diggs Jr. VIRGINIA BEACH - William R. Diggs Jr., son of the late William R. Diggs Sr. and Thelma Diggs Gaither and stepfather retired Naval Chief, Lewis G. Gaither went home Saturday, Aug. 15, 2009, at 2 p.m. in Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, surround by his sister, Barbara Larry and brother, Raymond Diggs. He was born July 20, 1947, in Princess Anne County, now Virginia Beach. William, affectionately known as "Butch" by his family, graduated from Waianae High School in Hawaii in 1965. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in United States Marine Corps in August 1965, serving for more than 10 years. He received several medals including the National Defense Service Medal and a Good Conduct Medal. He leaves to cherish his memory his son, Jonathan L. Diggs of Bronx, N.Y.; daughter, Tiffani A. Diggs of Hughesville, Md.; his four sisters, Anne Hawkins (Willie) of McKinney, Texas, Barbara Larry (Ivory) of Seattle, Doris Lee Hines and Theresa D. Joyner (Clarence) of Virginia Beach. Two sisters who preceded him in death, older sister Velma V. Diggs Hill and younger sister Iris Elizabeth Diggs. His five brothers, Raymond "Moon" Diggs (Helen) of Seattle, Larry Diggs of Costa Mesa, Calif., Eugene Diggs (Connie), Ernest Diggs (Valencia) and Sirley L. Sawyer (Evelyn) of Virginia Beach; and a very special cousin, Gail L. Dejournette whom he was especially close to; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved him very much. A memorial service will be held today, Sept. 26, at 12:30 p.m. at New Beginnings Church of Christ, Virginia Beach.