Henrietta "Loretta" Furneyhough, 89, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully March 28. She was born in Columbus, Ohio on June 18, 1927. In 1945, she married Walter J. Furneyhough of Phoebus where they made their home for many years until moving to Buckroe. Loretta worked as the Property Manager for Wherry Housing, Fort Monroe for over thirty years. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and taught CCD classes at St. Mary's Star of the Sea School. She was also a member and past President of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 48.
Loretta loved her family and friends and never met a stranger. She filled her home with love and laughter. She enjoyed cooking for everyone and welcomed many to her kitchen table. She will be missed deeply by all who knew her.
Predeceased by her husband of 56 years, Walt, she is survived by their children, Joseph R. Furneyhough (Janet), Walda F. Patton (Charles), and Theresa F. Elliott (Tim); three grandchildren, Meredith F. Fernandez, Charles F. Patton III (Sarah), and Timothy W. Elliott, Jr. (Brooke); and five great-grandchildren, Madison and Mackenzie Fernandez, Liam Patton, and Emily and Elizabeth Elliott. Loretta is also survived by her devoted companion, Edward J. Maben and his family.
A funeral service will be conducted at 10:00 AM, Friday, March 31, 2017 in the R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home chapel. The family will receive friends following the service until noon. Interment will be private.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 512 Buckroe Ave., Hampton, VA 23664.