Victoria Perkins Applewhite

Victoria P. Applewhite entered into eternal rest on November 15, 2025, at the age of 81. She was born on July 17, 1944, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late Jesse Lee Perkins, Sr., and Lucille Frances Anderson. From her earliest days, Victoria's life was shaped by faith, family, and a deep commitment to service.

At a young age, she was baptized at Zion Baptist Church in Newport News under the pastoral leadership of Rev. L. T. Daye, Sr. Years later, she united with Gethsemane Baptist Church, where she faithfully served through song in the choir and as a dedicated member of the Nursing (now Healthcare) Ministry. Her heart for ministry continued long after retirement as she volunteered as a church receptionist and joyfully offered her medical expertise each year at the Hampton University Ministers' Conference.

Victoria was educated in Newport News Public Schools, attending John Marshall Elementary, Dunbar Elementary, and proudly graduating from Huntington High School with the Class of 1962. During her time at Huntington, she was an active and accomplished student-singing in the choir and participating in FBLA, the Hobby Club, Math Club, Student Council, Leadership Class, Spanish Club, and various social clubs. She continued her studies at Hampton Institute (now Hampton University), pursuing nursing, and later earned a master's degree in Business from Troy State University.

Her professional career reflected her versatility, discipline, and passion for helping others. Victoria served as a church clerk at Zion Baptist Church, worked at Newport News Shipyard and Hampton General Hospital, and later served with excellence at the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center, where she retired in 2012.

A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Victoria embodied sisterhood, service, and scholarship in every stage of her life. She was known for being kind .

Viewing will be held Monday, November 24, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at Gethsemane Baptist Church, 5405 Roanoke Avenue, Newport News, Va. Interment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens.

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