Harold Richard Pelham

Harold Richard "Dick" Pelham passed away at his home in Cape Charles, VA on December 31, 2007. He was 85. Born on August 26, 1922 in Haleburg, AL, his parents were Joe B. Pelham, Sr and Georgia Jackson Pelham. He is survived by his wife, Pauline White Stevens. Dick was predeceased by his wife of 46 years, Virginia Green Pelham, his brother, Joe B. Pelham, Jr and his sister, Virginia Pelham Dawson. He leaves behind to cherish and honor his memory his daughter, Sandra Pelham Taylor of Townsend, VA, her husband Barry and their children, Matt, Mark, Trenton and Abby, and his son Rev. Michael Richard Pelham of Johnson City, TN, his wife Brenda and their children, Ryan, Chris, and Adam. Dick was blessed with the love of a large extended family and a host of good friends. He lived a full and happy life and we will miss him so much. Dick attended Trinity United Methodist Church in Cape Charles for many years. He also was most recently affiliated with Capeville Masonic Lodge #107, and was so proud of his more than 50 year membership with the Masons. In addition to the Masonic Lodge, he was also a member of the Eastern Shore Royal Arch Chapter #12, the Chesapeake Commandery #28, the Khedive Temple Shrine and the Portsmouth Scottish Rite. As a veteran, Dick was also honored to be a member of the American Legion Post #56 for several years. Soon after graduation from high school in Chesterfield County, VA, Dick enlisted in the United States Navy. He retired in 1970 as a Chief Petty Officer. He served with honor, loyalty and commitment for over 30 years and distinguished himself while serving on board several battleships during World War II. After WWII, he transferred from shipboard duty and became a naval aviation navigator. Chief Pelham was indeed a part of "The Greatest Generation". Dick retired, for a second time, in 1981 from the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he was an electrician. His primary responsibility was the big cranes. He was a bit of a daredevil and loved the excitement of climbing up and working on the big machines. Those fortunate enough to know Dick learned the true meaning of love and self-sacrifice. Our lives were truly enriched by having him with us. The family would love to spend time with friends and visitation will be Thursday, January 3rd from 6:00 until 8:00 at Trinity United Methodist Church. A service in celebration of his life will be held Friday, January 4th at 10:00 a.m. from the Trinity United Methodist Church, Cape Charles, VA with the Rev. Dewayne Duncan and Rev. Michael Pelham officiating. Members of the Masonic Lodge #107 and the American Legion Post #56 will also be participating. Interment, with full military honors, will be alongside his beloved "Ginx" at 3:00 p.m. in Remlik Memorial Gardens in Remlik, Va. In lieu of flowers, please remember Dick with memorials to the Masonic Home of Virginia, 4902 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA 23223-4916 or to the church of your choice. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.doughtyfuneralhome.com Arrangements by Wilkins-Doughty Funeral Home, Cape Charles, Virginia.