Gary Park Pridgen

Gary Park Pridgen, 83, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died on January 27, 2026, in Manasota Key, FL. He was born in Norfolk, VA, on June 1, 1942 to Eccles Veach Pridgen, Sr. and Mamie Thompson Pridgen. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Eccles Veach Pridgen, Jr. A steadfast and gentle man of Christian faith, Gary built his life on simple values, integrity and love of family.

Gary was married to Lynne Hardee Pridgen for 59 years, a partnership that remained the center of his life. He said that home was wherever she was. They met in college through their shared love of music. He is survived by his daughter, JoEllen Christine Pridgen of Orlando, FL; his daughter, Stephanie Pridgen Low and son-in law, Thomas James Low of Manasota Key, FL; his grandsons, Thomas Nicholas Low, James Pridgen Low, and Leo Gary Low. He is also survived by his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jean and Chris Drake, as well as seven nieces and nephews.

For 38 years, Gary worked loyally as an information technology professional for the Commonwealth of Virginia, taking on increasing responsibility and earning the respect of his colleagues through his steady demeanor and unwavering integrity. In 1966, he accepted the position as the first computer programmer for the city of Virginia Beach. He continued his career working as a systems analyst for ODU, UVA, and the Department of Environmental Quality and as Director of the Computer Center at Longwood University. A proud Virginian and an expert in American history and genealogy, he was deeply involved in both the Jamestown Society and the Sons of the American Revolution, where he valued the opportunity to honor and preserve the nation's founding heritage. He was especially proud of his sponsorship and support of the Battle of the Virginia Capes commemoration, which grew to a National commemoration within the SAR organization.

Beyond his professional and historical endeavors, Gary was a devoted family man who led with quiet strength and kindness. He faithfully supported his three grandsons in their pursuit of football from elementary school through college, rarely missing an opportunity to encourage them from the sidelines. His love of music continued throughout his life as he often had a Pandora station on in the background. Those who knew him well will remember him as strong and steady in all that he did and deeply loving toward his family and his country.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on February 7, 2026 at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, 8464 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk, VA 23518 with a graveside service immediately following at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8100 Granby St., Norfolk, VA 23505.