Essie DeLoatch

Essie DeLoatch

Suffolk - Essie Mae Riddick DeLoatch, 89, departed this life on Friday, September 22, 2017, in her home. A lifelong resident of Suffolk, she was born January 8, 1928 as the third child of Reverend Charlie Riddick and Cora Ballance Riddick.

She received her educational training in the public schools of Nansemond County. She worked for Planters Peanut Company for over 30 years and retired in 1985.

Mrs. DeLoatch was a devoted member of Metropolitan Baptist Church where she was a Deaconess. She was also an active member of the Harvest Missionary Circle, Senior Choir, and Kitchen Committee.

Mrs. DeLoatch's pleasant demeanor, kindness, and willingness to care for all, made her a beloved figure to family and friends. She was well known for her extraordinary cooking and making sure no one left her home without a meal. Left to cherish her memory are her loving and devoted children, Charles E. DeLoatch, Earl H. DeLoatch, and Sandra J. DeLoatch all of Suffolk; daughters-in-law, Georgiana DeLoatch of Portsmouth and Marie DeLoatch of Upper Marlboro, MD; sisters-in-law, Delores Thurman and Dr. Vasti DeLoatch of Richmond; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren; devoted cousin/sister Amanda R. Rodgers; cousins: Marie Thurman, Mildred Laury, and Ann Joe, and many other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 58 years, David W. DeLoatch, Sr.; daughter, Brenda J. DeLoatch; sons, David W. DeLoatch, Jr., and Johnny L. DeLoatch, Sr.; brother Walter E. Riddick; and sister, Thelma Riddick.

Visitation will be held Friday, September 29, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. and the funeral at 12:00 p.m., at Metropolitan Baptist Church, 125 County St., Suffolk. Interment will be in Carver Memorial Cemetery. Crocker Funeral Home is handling arrangements.