Joseph W. Lias

Joseph William “Buddy Boy” Lias

Joseph William “Buddy Boy” Lias departed his earthly home and entered into eternal rest Wednesday, September 6, 2023. He was born on March 21,1936 in Isle of Wight County.

Joseph attended Isle of Wight County Public Schools. After attending school, he joined the United States Army on November 17,1959. He retired from Newport News shipyard “TENNECO.” In the community, Buddy Boy was known as the Ice Cream Man. He enjoyed his job driving the ice cream truck and talking with many people of all ages. Joe also drove the medical taxi for many years. He loved caring for people. He had a gentle soul and a warm heart. He was truly loved by so many.

Joseph was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather Robert & Sarah Diggs; his brothers Charles Lias and Robert White; two sisters Sarah L. Pierce, Louise R. Lias and Mary Blanche Walker and a very special niece Maggie Lias.

Joseph leaves to cherish his memory his devoted daughters Rosetta Diane Jenkins and Hilja “Kita” Cypress (Linwood); six stepchildren Ella Ford, Barbara Howard, Rosa Wilkerson, Arthur Diggs, Jr., Alonzo Diggs (Pam), and Turekia White (Robert) and their mother Mary Diggs; eight grandchildren; Royce Jenkins, Shereka Jenkins, Detwayne Bailey (Kequilla), Sierra Starks (Terrell), Michael Robertson, Jr., Mark Robertson, Tukila Diggs, and Mercedi Brown; thirteen great grandchildren; a devoted niece Rosa Florine Burrell, a sister in law Thelma White and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, and friends, all of whom he truly loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held 12pm Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at Shivers Funeral Chapel. Viewing will take place Tuesday, September 12, 2023 from 3-6pm also at the Chapel. Interment will be on September 20, 2023 at Albert G. Horton, Jr., Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milner's Road, Suffolk, VA 23434