Joan Exum Obituary
Joan was born on September 23, 1932, in the Flatbush area of Brooklyn, New York. She was married to the love of her life, Joseph Lafeyette Exum Jr., for 57 devoted years. Together, they built a beautiful and sprawling family legacy: four sons, six granddaughters, two grandsons, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.
Their life was one of shared purpose and adventure. Joseph Jr. and their son David proudly served the United States in the Marine Corps. Following Joseph's service, the couple continued to build a legacy of opportunity and love, moving throughout the Southeast from Virginia to Florida. Side-by-side every day, they successfully owned and operated a remarkable range of businesses, including a ranch, a general store, beach stores, restaurants, pubs, pawn shops, a bail bonding service, and an auctioneering business.
Joan, who was always up for fun and adventure with Joe, is now with him in heaven, likely having a Kahlua and dancing with her beloved.
Joan was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Jr., and their oldest son, Donald. She is survived by her sons: David, Joseph (Barbara), and Jimmy. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Jacqueline Hobgood (Kelly), Meredith Exum, Olivia Exum (Justin), Rachel O'Connor (James), Sarah Ryan (Thomas), Elizabeth Sims (Jackson), and Michael Exum (Kayce). Her great-grandchildren are Jones and Jackson Hobgood (Isabelle), Ellis and Vance Exum, Ava O'Connor, Beau and Bennett Ryan, and Odette Laughter. She is also survived by her great-great-grandson, Waylon Hobgood.
Joan was a Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star, serving alongside Joe as a Worthy Patron.
A memorial service honoring Joan will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Shadowlawn Church, 520 Norfolk Ave., Virginia Beach, Virginia. A Celebration of Life will follow at Rudee's Restaurant. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice.
4105 Chesapeake Square Blvd, #107, Chesapeake, VA 23321
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