John Wilfred Legault

John "Jay" Legault, Jr., aged 75, passed away peacefully in his home on December 9, 2025, in Norfolk, Virginia, after a long and difficult health battle. Born on October 5, 1950, in Beverly, Massachusetts, Jay was the beloved son of the late Rose Mariam (née Spinale) and John Wilfred Legault, Sr.

Growing up in a bustling household as one of twelve children, Jay spent his early years in the Boston area. He later migrated down to Hampton Roads in the late 1980s, where he would establish his life and career. Jay worked diligently in management for retail businesses, where his leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on both colleagues and clients alike.

Jay was a devoted man of faith, he was baptized into the Lord on October 8th, 2006 by Minister James T. Jones. Jesus was close to his heart throughout his life and Jay prayed to him daily. Every night he would say, "God willing, we'll see each other tomorrow."

His love for family was boundless, and he was immensely proud of being a father of three to Richard, Paul, and Jinelle, a role he considered one of his greatest accomplishments. Known for his sense of humor, Jay was often the joker of the group, lovingly teasing his life partner and husband, Richard Cromwell, about everything from sandwiches to lasagna, always quick with his favorite quip-"What's this? Not where I come from."

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rose Mariam and John Wilfred Legault, Sr., sisters Vivienne, Rose "Punky", Michelle, and Francis, brothers Roger, Edward, Arthur, and Gene, step-father David Hatch as well as his dearly missed son, Paul who passed in 2001.

Jay is survived by his adoring and loving life partner and husband of 30 years, Richard Cromwell, his two cherished children, Richie and Jinelle his siblings Mary, David, and Corinna, his grandchildren Samantha, Paula, John, Rebecca, and Garrett and a host of great-grandbabies, family members, and friends who will remember him fondly.

A public viewing to honor and celebrate Jay's life will be held on Sunday, December 14th, 2025, between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. at the Altmeyer Funeral Home at 5034 Rouse Drive, Virgina Beach, Virginia 23462. Following the viewing, Jay will be laid to rest at the Bruce-Whitehurst family cemetery at 5509 Fitztown Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Friends and family are welcome at his home beginning at 5pm in Norfolk Va.

As we bid farewell to Jay, let us celebrate the joy and laughter he brought into our lives and hold dear the memories of a man who loved deeply and lived fully.