H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Obituaries

A Legacy of Compassionate Care: H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts.

H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., located at 1501 Colonial Avenue, Norfolk, VA, 23517, has been a beacon of hope and comfort for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this esteemed funeral home has earned the trust of the community it serves.

A History of Dedicated Service

Founded on a foundation of compassion and respect, H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. has been providing dignified funeral services to the people of Norfolk and surrounding areas for generations. The funeral home's legacy is built on a deep understanding of the importance of honoring loved ones with meaningful ceremonies that celebrate their lives.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Adelia “Dede” Robertson - December 03, 1927 - April 19, 2022

Departed: 04/19/2022 (Virginia Beach)

Obituary Preview: VIRGINIA BEACH, VA, (April 19, 2022) – Mrs. Adelia “Dede” Robertson, beloved wife of M.G. “Pat” Robertson, founder of The Christian Broadcasting Network, died on April 19th, at her home in Virginia Beach, VA. She was 94. Mrs. Robertson is survived by her husband, M.G. “Pat” Robertson, her four children, Timothy Robertson (Lisa), Elizabeth Robinson (Charles), Gordon Robertson (Katharyn), and Ann LeBlanc (Gary), 14 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren.

Dede Elmer was born on December 3, 1927, in Columbus, Ohio, to Ralph P. and Florence B. Elmer. She graduated from Ohio State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Social Administration. She worked as a fashion model and was a beauty queen in the Miss Ohio State contest.

Dede continued her education at the prestigious Yale University School of Nursing where she received a Master of Nursing Degree. While attending Yale, she met M.G. “Pat” Robertson, a student in the Yale Law School. They were married in 1954.

Mrs. Robertson was a founding member of the boards and continued as a valued member of the boards of The Christian Broadcasting Network, Inc., Regent University, and Operation Blessing International Relief and Development Corporation.

In 1982, she was appointed as the principal U.S. delegate to the Inter-American Commission of Women, where she represented the United States from 1982 to 1990. In that capacity she played a key role in elevating the status of the women who lived in Latin America. Dede was selected Christian Woman of the Year in 1986.

Mrs. Robertson was also an accomplished writer, authoring two books, My God Will Supply and The New You. She also wrote a monthly column, All in a Woman’s Day, for Christian Life Magazine.

In 1987 and 1988, Dede campaigned enthusiastically for Pat Robertson in his run for the Republican nomination for the office of President of the United States. Dede visited 52 American cities on behalf of her husband during his presidential bid.

Dede traveled extensively on behalf of the ministry of The Christian Broadcasting Network, Operation Blessing International, and The Flying Hospital’s medical missions. Traveling across Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, she worked tirelessly to bring humanitarian and medical aid to hurting people throughout the world.

Mrs. Robertson was an extraordinarily creative interior decorator. She led the design team that created an amazing experience for those who visited The Swan Terrace of The Founders Inn and Spa. She designed the furniture and chose the carpeting for the Regent University Chapel. Her crowning achievement was the decoration of the Regent University Theatre. She not only selected the magnificent colors but also the chairs and other decorations in that lovely theater, so much so that the board of trustees of Regent University renamed it the Dede Robertson Theatre.

It can truly be said that wherever Dede’s hand touched, it brought beauty.

“My mom was a rock. She was a rock throughout our childhood. Dad had to travel a lot, but Mom was always there for us kids… that gives great security to children,” said daughter, Ann LeBlanc.

“I think the thing that’s been wonderful for all of us children to see was the extraordinary growth in my parents… as they got older, it seems like they were getting closer together… there was a sweetness and a gentleness in both of them. That was a great example for us kids to see,” said son, Tim Robertson.

“Mom was the glue that held the Robertson family together. She was always working behind the scenes. If it weren’t for Mom, there wouldn’t be a CBN,” said son, Gordon Robertson.

“My mother had so many virtues… I’ve never heard her complain or want to give up… she was steadfast. That’s what Dad needed beside him all these years; a steadfast partner who continually read the Bible and studied the Bible. She was not too concerned about herself. She was selfless. I always saw that growing up. She would make sure we had before she had,” daughter Elizabeth Robinson said.

The Robertson family wishes to thank Darnell Taylor, Lisa Garza, Mary Barrera, and Sandra Buachie from Seniorcorp and Jessica Pope from Trinity Hospice, for the wonderful care they provided to Dede during the past months.

“Dede Robertson was a woman of great faith, a champion of the Gospel, and a remarkable servant of Christ who has left an indelible print on all that she set her hand to during her extraordinary life,” said Pat Robertson. Funeral Service: Regent University Monday, April 25th, 2022 Twelve noon (12:00 pm) Overflow seating only available at: The Regent Theatre and the Communications Building Plaza

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Elesa Leigh Ann Ingersoll - November 26, 2015 - June 24, 2019

Departed: 06/24/2019 (Virginia Beach)

Obituary Preview: Elesa Leigh-Ann Ingersoll, age 3, died Monday June 24, 2019. Elesa was born on November 26, 2015 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. She was a very outgoing happy little girl. Elesa loved music, dancing, and singing. She loved the color pink. Her smile and joyous laugh would light up any room she was in. She was so full of life. She is survived by her mother, Desirae Ingersoll and her two siblings Anthony Ingersoll (5) and Lexie Ingersoll (2) and many more family members that loved her.

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A Team of Caring Professionals

The staff at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. is comprised of experienced and empathetic professionals who are dedicated to guiding families through the funeral planning process with sensitivity and care. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the team is committed to ensuring that every detail is meticulously attended to, providing families with peace of mind during a difficult time.

Personalized Funeral Services

H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. recognizes that every life is unique, and therefore, every funeral service should be tailored to reflect the personality, interests, and achievements of the deceased. The funeral home offers a range of personalized options, including traditional funerals, cremations, and memorial services, allowing families to create a celebration of life that truly honors their loved one.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and friends to gather and pay their respects. The spacious chapels, visitation rooms, and reception areas are tastefully decorated and equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, ensuring that every service is conducted with dignity and respect.

Pre-Planning and Aftercare Support

H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. understands that funeral planning can be overwhelming, which is why they offer pre-planning services to help families prepare for the future. Additionally, the funeral home provides aftercare support, including grief counseling and bereavement resources, to help families navigate the healing process.

Community Involvement

H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. is deeply committed to the Norfolk community and actively participates in local events and charities. The funeral home believes that giving back to the community is an essential part of its mission to serve families with compassion and integrity.

A Commitment to Excellence

H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of quality and excellence in all aspects of its services. The funeral home is licensed and certified by relevant authorities, ensuring that families receive the best possible care and attention during their time of need.

In conclusion, H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. is a shining example of compassionate care and dedication to serving families with dignity and respect. If you're looking for a trusted partner to guide you through the funeral planning process, look no further than this esteemed funeral home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a permanent record of the person's life and legacy.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The responsibility of writing an obituary usually falls on the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also mention any notable accomplishments or awards.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a nice way to personalize the tribute and help people remember the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and guidelines. Some newspapers may accept online submissions, while others may require email or phone submissions.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary, such as Legacy.com, Tributes.com, or Facebook Memorial Pages. These platforms often provide templates and guidance to help you create a meaningful tribute.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or online platform. Some newspapers may charge by the word or line, while online platforms may offer free or paid options with varying levels of features.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Online platforms often allow for immediate publication, while newspapers may take several days to a week to print.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, changes cannot be made to an obituary once it has been published in print. However, online platforms may allow for edits or corrections within a certain timeframe.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary provides more detailed information about the person's life and legacy.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to have control over how they are remembered. This can also help alleviate the burden on family members during a difficult time.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers or visit your local library to access microfilm copies of past newspapers. Many online platforms also offer searchable databases of historical obituaries.

Can I reuse an existing obituary template?

Yes, many online platforms offer pre-designed templates that you can customize with your loved one's information. You can also find templates online or use a previous obituary as a guide.

What is the purpose of including funeral information in an obituary?

Including funeral information in an obituary allows friends and family to attend the services and pay their respects. It also provides details on how to send flowers, donations, or condolences.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers as a way to honor their loved one's memory and support a meaningful cause.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about including sensitive information such as cause of death or personal struggles, it's best to consult with family members or close friends before publishing the obituary.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include lighthearted stories or humorous memories in an obituary as a way to celebrate their loved one's personality and spirit.

What is the role of social media in sharing an obituary?

Social media can be a powerful tool for sharing an obituary and reaching a wider audience. Many online platforms allow you to share the obituary directly on social media channels.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform. Some platforms may keep the obituary available indefinitely, while others may remove it after a certain period.

Can I create a memorial website or page in addition to an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to create a memorial website or page on social media as a way to share more photos, stories, and memories of their loved one.

What is the etiquette for responding to condolences expressed through an online obituary?