Horace Lee Bazemore Sr.

Our dad, Horace Lee Bazemore, Sr., born in Boykins, Virginia on June 3, 1925, to the late Elizabeth Bazemore and Herman Ridley as the oldest of two children lived to be ninety-three years of age. He now tarries in the garden where the dew is still on the roses and the birds hush their singing so that he can hear the voice that the Son of God discloses. Horace dedicated his life to God and to family. He was faithful to give Christ his time and his tithes. He cherished our mother Marion V. Bazemore for more than seventy years. Dad adored his children raising them to be good providers and to earn not just a living, but to also garner respect and honor, achieve a good standing in the community and to live life with dignity. Dad was a handsome man with a high intellect and a quick wit. He never let anything get by him. He took pride in how he presented himself to others. His hair was carefully cropped and clothing always tailored with class. He was a storyteller who captivated his audience. He loved to hear a good joke and he could definitely tell one. His timing was impeccable. He was rhythmic, known for his smooth dancing and silvery baritone voice. Our mom was smitten by his graciousness and together they built a family. Dad was raised by his mother, our beloved Grandma Elizabeth, who taught him to love deeply; so he did. He loved his family. Whatever made us happy he would provide. When Mom wanted members of her family to move into our home, Dad opened the doors. When his children moved on their own, Dad contributed to the rent. When the grandchildren needed help, Dad freely gave them “a little something” to help. In all of our accomplishments, regardless of gravity, Dad beamed with pride. He was a good friend who stayed committed to a few gentlemen with whom he cultivated friendships wrapped in humor, mutual respect and admiration. He loved his work as an electrician and served more than thirty years at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. He loved his country and discharged his duties beyond American waters in France during World War II as a Private First Class Quartermaster shuttling prisoners back from the front lines to rear operations. Dad loved his church. For many years he held his place as an usher on the door, serving the people and securing the church. He knew no limitations on love and we thank God for our dad. Horace, pre-deceased by his wife, Marion Virginia, and one daughter, Brenda Aileen, leaves to cherish his memory three daughters, Phyllis Baisden (Kenneth), Marion Watts (Keith) and Dr. Debbie Harrington (Bob); six sons, Rev. Horace Jr. (Sylvia), Rev. Dr. Christopher, Timothy, Michael (Juanita), Vincent and Jeffery Bazemore; He became father to his granddaughter Dr. Christy Bazemore, helped to raised Andrea Shearin (Jake) and cared for 14 grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews and endeared friends. “If life lasts, time will tell.” Horace L. Bazemore Sr.

Horace Lee Bazemore Sr.

June 3, 1925 - January 26, 2019