James William Oliver, Sr.

James William Oliver Sr., 85, was born on June 18, 1936 in Dillion, SC and passed peacefully in his sleep at home on November 29, 2021.

Bro. Oliver was preceded in his passing by his parents James and Minnie Bethea Oliver; his wife Hattie Oliver, and two siblings Claywood Oliver and Arnita Williams.

Bro. Oliver graduated from I.C. Norcom High School in 1955 and enlisted in the Air Force where he retired after 20 years as a Fire Inspector. Bro. Oliver then became a Federal GS employee and spent another 20 years as a Fire Inspector at the Navy Hospital in Portsmouth VA and at Yorktown Naval Arsenal VA. Bro. Oliver had many passions which included – just to name a few – bowling, fishing, his beloved Philadelphia Eagles, travelling with his wife Hattie, and of course his Grove family where he was well known for dressing to a “T” – Hattie made sure of that!

Bro. Oliver was raised at Noble Street Baptist Church but was reconfirmed and baptized at Grove in 1999 where he remained a member until his passing. He leaves behind three beloved children, James Oliver Jr., Marie Bailey, and Terrence Oliver; five grandchildren, Geovani, James III, Brianna, Noah, Harley and Ally; one great grandchild Paxton and a host of nieces and nephews. Bro. Oliver also leaves behind three beloved sisters, Geroma Oliver, Gatha Hill, and Irma Davis. Bro. Oliver was a man of faith and has gone home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 11am on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at Grove Baptist Church Portsmouth, Va. Viewing will take place on Wednesday, December 15, 2021 from 6-8pm at Grove Baptist Church. Please keep the Oliver family in your prayers. In lieu of flowers potted plants are welcomed.