Ella Virginia Sharpless

HAMPTON - Ella Virginia Sharpless, 67, a native of Isle of Wight County and a resident of Hampton for over 40 years, passed away Friday, Nov. 17, 2006, in the early morning hours. She was a dedicated member of Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Temple, where she was a member of the Bible study class. She participated regularly in the exercise program at Hampton Senior Citizens Center. She was a educator for over 30 years in the Virginia Public Schools system. She was an avid bowler for many years. She enjoyed walks and close conversations with her granddaughter, Kelly Rae. She was moved again by the birth of her second granddaughter, Kai Lynn. She loved people and would do anything she could to help anyone in need. A true spirit, she will truly be missed. She was preceded in death by her husband, Othello Sharpless, and her son, Orrin Sharpless. She is survived by her son, Stephen Sharpless (Sonja); two granddaughters, Kelly and Kai, all of Charlotte, N.C.; sister, Georgia M. Seldon of Hampton; brothers-in-law, Curtis Mangrum of Hampton, Edwin Sharpless and Ivan Sharpless, both of Newport News; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Viewing will be held from 1 to 7 p.m. Monday at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th St., Newport News, VA 23607, (757) 380-0251. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday at Sixth Mt. Zion Baptist Temple with the Rev. Jerome Barber officiating. Interment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at 2 Mimosa Crescent, Hampton, and will assemble there by 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday. Condolences may be sent to www.cookebros.com.