CAPT James Richard Fuqua Jr., USN (Ret.)

James Richard Fuqua, Jr. (CAPT USN Retired) died on Sunday, July 10, 2022, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born February 28, 1936 in Orlando, Florida, to James Richard Fuqua, Sr. and Flora Morrie Wells. Jim spent his childhood years in Florida. He attended The Citadel in Charleston, SC, before entering the U.S. Naval Academy, graduating in the Class of 1959. He was commissioned as an Ensign in the United States Navy. He later earned an MBA from Old Dominion University.

As a Naval Submarine Officer, his pride and love of the Submarine Force ran deep. His distinguished career included a tour on the USS Manley DD 941 before attending Nuclear Power School and transitioning to nuclear submarines. He served on the USS Cubera SS 347, USS Woodrow Wilson SSBN 624, USS John C. Calhoun SSBN 630, USS George Washington SSBN 598, USS Andrew Jackson SSBN 619, and as Commanding Officer of the USS Alexander Hamilton, SSBN 617, Blue Crew. He also served on the Submarine School staff and NATO staff, retiring in 1983 with 24 years of service. Jim also earned several commendations, including the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Polaris Patrol Pin with 15 Patrols, and Commander Sea Insignia.

Jim was a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach where he loved singing in the choir and attending musical performances. He was an avid golfer with the men's golf group at Cypress Point Country Club. In his younger years, he enjoyed spending time on his boat, fishing, and traveling. He had a passion for good food and wine and enjoyed describing the wonderful meals he'd enjoyed.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Jane B. Martin Fuqua and his children Ruth Ann Clark (Michael) of Reston, Laura Beth Meinster (Doug) of Chesapeake, Jane Elyce Glasgow (Bob) of Chesapeake, and Jamie Fuqua (Stacy) of Virginia Beach. He was very proud of his 10 grandchildren: Emily, Katherine and Mary Adelaide Clark; Robyn Podolsky (Chris) and Benjamin Meinster; Jacob and Hannah Glasgow; and Joshua, Paige and Abigail Fuqua. He is also survived by numerous extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Flora Lee Thomas.

A Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held Friday, July 22, 2022, at 2 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to the Music Program, First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach, 300 36th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Condolences may be offered to the family at: www.hollomon-brown.com.