Ernest Norfolk Sr.

Ernest Eugene “Gene” Norfolk, Sr., 87, passed away peacefully at his home on July 13, 2020 after a long battle with cancer. He was born September 25, 1932 to William and Myrtle on their family farm in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. From a young age, Gene was an outdoorsman. He enjoyed tobacco farming, hunting and playing sports well into adulthood. Later he began a career delivering ice cream for Delvale, and retired after 40 years as a Route Supervisor for Embassy Dairy. Farming was always in Gene’s blood and in retirement he enjoyed spending his time outside in his garden growing fruits and vegetables to share with his family. His most honored role in retirement was being “Pop” to his grandchildren and chauffeur for them and his beloved wife. While he enjoyed cheering on his favorite Washington area sports teams, his favorite people to root for were his family. “Pop” was always present at ballgames, concerts, and school activities. He was preceded in death by his first and only love, his wife of 62 years, Betty Jane McLaughlin. Additionally, preceded by his parents, William and Myrtle Norfolk, his sisters Genevieve Lloyd, Shirley Aley, and his brother Donald. Gene is survived by his two children, Ernest Eugene “Gene” Norfolk, Jr. (Susan) and Sharon Lynn Beall (Danny) and five loving grandchildren, Ryan, Sarah, and Reed Norfolk and Brandon and Daniel Beall. He is also survived by in-laws Jim and Ellen McLaughlin, Shirley McLaughlin, and Walter Aley; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was a man of few words, but he was known for giving those dear to him a personally selected card with heart-filled messages. It was through all these actions that his family knew how much he loved and supported them; his quiet presence will be truly missed. Due to Covid-19 and the safety of family and friends, the family has decided to postpone a memorial service; in 2021 on the first anniversary of his death, the family will host a Remembrance for Gene. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Ernest Norfolk Sr. please visit our Sympathy Store.