John "Jack" Lofton

PORTSMOUTH – John H. “Jack” Lofton passed peacefully into the arms of our Heavenly Father on Monday, November 15, 2021.

Jack is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Lydia V. Lofton; his parents, Bebe Ann and Charles Lofton; and sisters Rose Lee Slade and Goldie Lofton.  Left to cherish his memory are his sons, John (wife, Tana) and Roger (wife, Aimee); his daughter, Cindy Bailey (husband, Russell); grandchildren Meagan Matthews (husband, Tyler), Brittany Bailey (wife, Tonya), Kendall Buonviri (husband, Randy), and Ryan Bailey; three great-grandchildren: Austin, Aubrey, and Brooks; and nieces Marianne Flahiff and Rosalie Maxey.

Although born in Petersburg, Virginia, Jack was raised in Newtown and resided in Portsmouth for all of his life.  He retired from Bell Atlantic (now Verizon) as a field engineer, then, with Lydia, opened Casa Rio at Portside.  Following this adventure, he worked part time for Procter and Gamble and Ray’s Dog House.  Jack also was an avid volunteer at Olive Branch Little League, later establishing the Portsmouth Super League for those guys who grew older but still loved the game of baseball.  Jack was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and served as past Grand Knight of St. Paul’s Council 418.

Jack was known for his kindness and generosity, but especially, his zest for life and love of people.  He was a true gentleman and will sorely be missed by all who knew him.

A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated 12:00 noon Wednesday, November 24, at St. Paul Catholic Church. The family will receive friends at the church from 10:30 to noon. Burial will be private at Albert G. Horton Memorial Veterans Cemetery, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church, 536 Homestead Rd., Chesapeake, VA 23321. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com.