Earl Page Routten, Jr., known to everyone as Buddy, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2025. He was 73 years old. He was born on July 31, 1951, in Hampton, VA to Earl P. Routten, Sr. and Grace McDaniel Routten. Buddy spent his career in the shipbuilding industry working in submarine design, first at Newport News Shipbuilding and later at Oceaneering in Chesapeake, VA.

For Buddy, family came first. He always looked forward to family events, no matter how small, as it was a chance to spend time with the people he loved.  Family was not just those who were related by blood or marriage—it included honorary members, personal friends, and friends of family members. Once he considered you family, you were always family.

Buddy was such a kind soul. Whether you needed help, advice, a laugh, or a hug, he was there waiting to assist. Most likely, that assistance would showcase his mischievous nature. Growing up, Buddy liked to play good-natured pranks on his sisters. Over the years, he continued this with his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends. Buddy graduated from Hampton High School, Class of 1969. He was a proud Crabber, and through the years, attended every one of his class reunions, often helping with the planning and organization.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Regina Stegall Routten. He is survived by his children Tommy Routten (Christan) and Erin Routten; his grandchildren Connor Routten, Paige Routten, and Cooper Routten; his partner Peggy Steele and her family; his sisters Carol Routten Riley and Kathy Routten (Jeff); his honorary son Eduardo Soto (Sandra) and family; and his five nieces and nephews and their families.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 9th from 6:00-7:30 PM at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home, Thursday, April 10th at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow immediately after in Clark Cemetery.