John E. Underwood died August 12, 2010 at Sentara Obici Hospital surrounded by his family.
He was born January 10, 1938 in Southampton County, the son of the late Susie Baugham and John Ivey Underwood and was predeceased by his wife of 44 years, Elizabeth Underwood.
John was a graduate of Christopher Newport University and retired from Union Camp after more than 30 years of service. He was a longtime member of Franklin Baptist Church, serving as a Sunday School teacher and deacon. He was also a proud member of the Franklin Jaycees, Franklin Masonic Lodge #151 AF & AM and the Hunterdale Ruritan Club.
Survivors include daughters, Ann Smith of Charlottesville, VA and Amy Simms and husband, Lance, of Franklin, VA; beloved grandsons, Brendan Simms, Bryce Simms and Nathan Smith; one sister, Barbara Holloman and husband, E. L., of Ahoskie, NC; one brother-in-law, James Nelson Eller Jr. and wife, Darla, of Savannah, GA.; a special family friend, Nancy Phillips of Franklin, VA; his nephews, Scott Eller and family of Charlotte, NC and Wade Eller and family of Centreville, VA; many cousins and other extended family.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 15, 2010 at Franklin Baptist Church with the Rev. Sharon James officiating. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, August 14 at Wright Funeral Home, Franklin, VA, and suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Franklin Baptist Church, 208 North High Street, Franklin, Va. 23851.
Wright Funeral Home, Franklin, VA, is handling the arrangements. Condolences can be directed to www.wrightfuneralhome.org.