William H. Jennings

From William’s first memories, he loved chemistry. He never stopped learning and experimenting. He attended William and Mary College and took every chemistry and science course they had to offer. His understanding and knowledge of the subject was a gift, one he shared with those who wanted to learn.

William and his wife Margaret (Drake) Jennings and 2 children moved to Virginia Beach in 1957 where he later opened another business, Jennings Laboratories, an analytical Lab, which his son Bill, Jr. still operates. He inspired his employees with his love of his work. His son joined him in 1968 and Helen Hall came on board in 1969 and she too, is still there along with several other long-time employees.

He took a special interest in Edgar Cayce’s work. Through the A.R.E. in Virginia Beach he obtained some of Mr. Cayce’s readings and developed those products in the lab. One of his special memories was of Colonel Sanders, of Kentucky Fried Chicken, who engaged him to work on quality control at his restaurants. Their friendship lasted years and he proudly displayed their picture together in his office and later at First Colonial Inn, where he lived until the end of his life.

In his effort to find the perfect place, William moved to Santa Clara, Panama by himself when he was 89. He stayed for 3 years. He then returned to Orlando, then eventually back to Virginia Beach where he found First Colonial Inn, a place he loved. The last 3 years of his life, he had a wonderful caregiver, Trasea Sayers, who came to his home sometimes daily to fix his meals or his computer or help with his formulas. His last month Trasea monitored his care. His 2 children cannot express enough how much they appreciate the comfort she gave their father, as well as them.

William H. Jennings is predeceased in death by his parents and his wife Margaret. He is survived by his two children, William H. Jennings, Jr. of Virginia Beach and The Honorable Dorothy J. Russell of Orlando, FL; granddaughter, Kimberly Thaxton (Jim Surane); and twin great-granddaughters, Caroline and Courtney Thaxton.

He shared so much, inspired so many, and he will be missed by more especially Willie Cat who was with him to the end.

A memorial service will be held from 2:00-3:00 p.m., May 1, 2012 at First Colonial Inn.