Leroy Porter

Leroy Porter was born July 29, 1945 in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Cleveland Porter and Arneedia Porter. Leroy is preceded in death by his parents and a wife Philamenia Porter. He matriculated through Norfolk Public School System. Leroy was a member of the United States Navy for a total of 3 years. While serving our country, he was aboard the U.S.S Intrepid (CVS-11) during the Vietnam War. He was united in holy matrimony to Stephania G. Porter on June 25, 1983. Leroy Porter is survived by Stephania G. Porter (Wife), Melody Trainer, Muriel Brown (Frankie), Darryl Porter (Carolyn), Don Porter (Angela), Dean Porter (Trinnetta), Miai Porter-Riddick (James), 19 grandchildren: Sharita, Wenetta, Dominique, Darryl Jr., Aaron, Ciarra, Corey, Donovan, Paris, Frankie Jr., Desteni, Delaney, Jaylen, Heavyn, Angel, Elijah, Micaiah, Simone and Jalai, 17 great grandchildren, one sister Berdie McNair, special sister-in-law Charlene Felton, Best friend James M. McCullough, Jr., special daughters Stephanie Austin-Smith (Bruce) and Karrin Drake. As well as a host of loving nieces, nephews, family and friends. Leroy worked in Shop 72 as a Rigger at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia. He was such an outstanding Rigger, one who was dedicated and committed to his job. Several years later Leroy received a promotion and became a Loft Mechanic. Due to his exemplary performance as a Rigger and later a Loft Mechanic, he became a Training Instructor. Being a training Instructor was one of his greatest achievements being able to teach others and share his knowledge. Leroy was also a part of a Tiger Team that traveled multiple places to include overseas. He was called “Mr. Overtime” by his shop buddies because he worked a lot of overtime to care for his children. Leroy was highly efficient at his job and knew the technical aspects of his job. Because of his astute knowledge and dedication along with his attention to detail, and exceptional performance in all his previous jobs combined; years later, he was promoted to Shop Planner, Rigger Supervisor, and Drydocking Specialist respectfully. He was well respected at the shipyard. He was a “No Nonsense” type of person. He always took his array of jobs seriously along with his dedication to his family. During his tenure at the Shipyard, he took James M. McCullough Jr. “whom we affectionately call Uncle Mac” under his wings and mentored him along with a superpower lady named Lolita Lee. *He took great care of his work employees, always caring about their wellbeing. As a member of Brighton Rock AME Zion Church, Leroy was a member of Class #4 and served as a member of the Trustee Ministry from 2010-2022. He also was a member of the Culinary Ministry, a Life Member of the Lay Council and a Honorary Member of the Life Members Council of the Missionary Society. He also served on the Ethel Cheek Usher Board. Leroy was a devoted husband, loving father and loyal friend. Family was so important to him always ensuring that his family was well taken care of. He was always concerned about the well-being of others. You'll often hear him say, "You alright?!" When he considered you a friend you had a friend for life. Leroy loved to throw some food on the grill, fry fish or grab some crabs. All so he could see the smile on the faces of others. He was also a fan of grabbing “SNACKS” at night. We will miss his laugh, rapid fire jokes and his infectious smile. However, we know he's at peace and in no more pain. Special Acknowledgements: The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to the Hampton Veterans Administration Medical Center, Commonwealth Senior Living Facility, Sentara Leigh Hospital and J.T. Fisher Funeral Home.

Leroy Porter

July 29, 1945 - August 18, 2023