Welton Charles "Pete" Ewell Jr

Welton Charles Ewell, Jr., (aka "Pete"), aged 81, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA. He was born on April 11, 1944, in Norfolk, VA, to Welton Charles Ewell, Sr., and Alice Arlene Bruce Ewell. After his father's death in 1959, his mother married Roy Littleton White, Sr., in 1961 from Knotts Island, NC. Pete is also preceded in death by Roy and Alice White, his parents, and his son, Roy Alan Ewell. Pete attended Creeds High School (Grades 1-12 before 1954) and Princess Anne High School (Class of 1962). He was a painter with the Virginia Beach City Public Schools and City of Virginia Beach, an owner/operater of a fish camp in Florida, a restaurant owner/operator/chef (Sidekicks Restaurant in Virginia Beach), and Director of Music at Knotts Island United Methodist Church, Knotts Island Baptist Church, and Knox Presbyterian Church in Norfolk, VA. He also played piano or organ for Oak Grove Baptist Church with Mrs. Eleanor Simpson as a young boy, Norfolk Seventh Day Adventist, Bethel Church, Church of Christ Church, Cava Church, Blackwater Baptist Church, and various senior communities. He also played in bands: The Montereys, Duane and Kenny Markham Band, and Shakey's. His love for playing the piano began when he was only 8 years old and his talent blessed an uncountable audience throughout his life. He is survived by his wife and love of his life, Diana Drennan Ewell; his loving son, Michael Darryl Ewell (Kimberly); his devoted sisters, Patricia Ann Giancola (Joseph) and Sandra Marie White (Randy); his brother, Roy Littleton White, Jr.; his caring stepchildren, Gail McCloud Fentress, Christopher Douglas McCloud (Margaret), and Melody Diana Tarica (Ralph); and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Deep appreciation is extended to Kathryn Klump and her compassionate team (Maria, Kelly, Loretta, and other caregivers) at Bay Haven Homes. Their kindness and dedication to his comfort and care in his final journey were true blessings. Family and friends are invited to Knotts Island United Methodist Church, 677 Knotts Island Rd., Knotts Island, NC 27950 on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at 1:30pm to reminisce, honor, and celebrate the life of Pete. Following the service, the family will receive friends in the Church Social Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Knotts Island United Methodist Church.