James Herbert Dodge Sr.

James Herbert "Herb" Dodge March 14, 1930 - May 31, 2025
James Herbert Dodge, lovingly known as Herb, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 95. A paratrooper, businessman, storyteller, and beloved patriarch, Herb's presence was as steady as it was spirited.
Born in Norfolk on March 14, 1930, Herb learned early how to work hard and care for others-working at the fish market before school, shining shoes downtown as a boy, pitching in for his family, and picking up the kind of life lessons that would carry him through the decades. At just 16, he joined the Merchant Marines, and by 18, he had enlisted in the U.S. Army-serving proudly in the 82nd, 11th, and 101st Airborne divisions as a paratrooper. He wore his military service with pride and continued to honor that chapter of his life with integrity and humility.
After his military service, Herb spent many years working at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he built a reputation for being sharp, dependable, and unafraid of a challenge until retiring in 1975. In 1985, he took that same work ethic and vision and founded Herb Dodge Enterprises-a business he led with conviction until finally retiring in 2021 at the age of 91.
Herb was known for his wit, a hint of mischief in his grin, and endless stories. Herb didn't just have stories-he had volumes. If you knew him, you've heard them (probably more than once). He told them often, whether the moment called for it or not-that was just Herb. Whether talking about his childhood in Berkley, his friendships with local legends, or tales from his Army days, those stories became part of the rhythm of his life and ours. We'll be retelling them for years to come, smiling at the memory of the man who never ran out of things to say.
He supported the South Norfolk Pony Baseball League as both a donor and volunteer for more than 50 years, enjoyed time on the water-whether fishing or boating-and had a deep love for music, especially when playing the harmonica or guitar. One of his greatest joys was watching his children and grandchildren play sports.
Herb was preceded in death by his parents, James Henry and Ina Jamison Dodge; six siblings, including his brother Edward Ray Dodge, MIA in Vietnam; his first wife, Marcia Louise Overton Dodge, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage; his son, Kevin Michael Dodge; and his grandson, Kevin Michael Dodge.
He is survived by his wife of 21 years, Virgie Gregory Dodge; his son, James Herbert Dodge Jr. (Kathy); and his stepchildren, William Gerstein (Cristi), James Gerstein (Andrea), Brandi Myers (Michelle Flordeliz), and Leslie Biondolillo (Gabriele). He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Alisa Bolig (Bob), Sydney Gerstein, Jada Myers, Mallory Gerstein, Ciara Gerstein, Mackenzie Gerstein, and Elijah Myers, as well as his FDIL Nicol Roberts and many cherished nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to @Heart Hospice, especially Nurse Kristi and Hospice Aide Tricia "Ms. T," for their extraordinary compassion, care, and kindness in Herb's final days.
A service to honor Herb's life will be held at Graham Funeral Home, 1112 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. Immediately following the service, the family invites you to join them for continued fellowship in the reception center. Burial will take place at Riverside Memorial Park, 1000 Indian River Road, Norfolk, at 2 p.m. Donations in honor of Herb can be made to the VCU Kevin Michael Dodge Memorial Scholarship Fund (MCV Foundation), or the 82nd Airborne Association in his memory.
Please visit grahamfuneralhom.com to view the service and to leave a condolence to the family.