Thomas E. Brite, Sr., 87, died Tuesday, February 16, 2021. Born and raised in Hampton, he was a 1952 graduate of Hampton High School where he excelled on the football field. He joined the US Air Force upon graduation from high school and served honorably for 20 years, retiring in 1972. He went to work as a full time Deputy Sheriff in Hampton, then went to the Suffolk Sheriff's Department and worked parttime before fully retiring. He was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge #366, BPOE.

Preceded in death by his daughter, Kerri Brite, wife, Charlene Brite, and his brother, Charles Brite; survivors include his wife, Olga "OC" Brite; three sons, Thomas E. Brite, Jr., John G. Brite, and Richard M. Brite.

A private graveside service with full Air Force honors will take place in the Albert G. Horton, Jr. State Veterans' Cemetery.

Arrangements by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.