William "Buddy" Allen Denton

William "Buddy" Denton, beloved husband, father, grandfather, coach, and pillar of the community, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 22, 1940, in Richmond, VA, and spent the majority of his life in Hampton, VA.

Buddy's journey was one marked by dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to both his family and the sport he loved. He graduated from Hampton High School in 1958, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He furthered his education at Old Dominion University, where he played baseball and earned his degree in Physical Education in 1962. Following his college years, Buddy devoted three years of his life to serving his country in the Army.

Returning to Hampton after his military service, Buddy embarked on a fulfilling career in education. He shared his knowledge and passion for Health and Physical Education with countless students over the years, leaving a lasting mark on their lives. Additionally, he found his calling in coaching, a role that would become synonymous with his identity for half a century.

Buddy's dedication to coaching baseball was unparalleled. For five decades, he poured his heart and soul into mentoring young athletes, guiding them not only in the details of the game but also in life lessons that extended far beyond the diamond. His coaching journey took him through Kecoughtan High School, Christopher Newport University, and the Newport News Apprentice School, where he left a lasting legacy of sportsmanship, integrity, and teamwork.

Beyond the field, Buddy cherished his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. He shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Patricia, and together they raised two sons, Allen and David. Buddy was immensely proud of his grandchildren, Max, Kendall, Tyson, and Brooks, and cherished every moment spent cheering them on from the sidelines of their various sporting activities.

Buddy's love for baseball was legendary. Whether he was coaching on the field, cheering from the stands at Peninsula Pilots games, or simply enjoying a game on television, his passion for the sport was infectious. He maintained close connections with his former players, always eager to hear about their successes both on and off the field.

A true gentleman with a heart of gold, Buddy Denton will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and love for the game will continue to inspire generations to come.

Buddy is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia; loving sons, Allen and David, along with daughter-in-law Jennifer; cherished grandchildren, Max, Kendall, Tyson, and Brooks; loving sisters, Barbara Clark and Linda Peters, and brother-in-law Jerry; loving sisters and brothers-in-law Martha and George Long and Carolyn and Bobby Davis; as well as nieces and nephews. In honoring Buddy's memory, may we all strive to live our lives with the same passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to family and community that he exemplified.

Join us for the Celebration of Life at Hampton Baptist Church, 40 Kings Way, Hampton, VA 23669, on March 23, 2024, at 2 PM. Visitation will precede the service, beginning at 1 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Buddy Denton’s name to the Hampton Retired Educators Association, for a Scholarship to be Awarded to a Student-Athlete. Contributions can be sent to 103 Five Forks Lane, Hampton, VA 23669. Your generosity will help carry on Buddy's legacy of support for young athletes.