Laurie Bell Hedgpeth's Obituary
Laurie Belle Hedgpeth, A Legacy of Love, Strength, and Storytelling.
Born on January 18, 1935, in the small town of Boston, Virginia, Laurie Belle Hedgpeth (née Nelson) came into the world as one of nine siblings in the loving home of William and Phobie Nelson. Surrounded by her brothers and sisters—Earl, Elsie, William, Elizabeth, Garfield, Charles, Mildred, Walter, and Barbara—Laurie’s early years were filled with country adventures. Some of her fondest childhood memories include swimming in the river and picking fresh fruit from her grandfather’s orchard.
At the age of 10, Laurie’s life took a new turn when she moved to Washington, D.C., to live with her Aunt Mary and Uncle Bernie Booten. There, she discovered city life, fell in love with going to the local swimming pools, and continued her education in the public school system. She attended Monroe Elementary, Banneker Junior High, and Cardozo Senior High School, eventually furthering her education at George Mason University, Cortez Business School, and Atlantic Business School.
It was in junior high where Laurie met the love of her life, Verne Hedgpeth. He was the school patrol boy, and she remembers thinking he was cute. Their connection blossomed into a lifelong romance. Verne proposed to her while serving in the Navy—via telegram—and although their wedding was small due to his military service, their love was anything but. Laurie fondly remembers that just before saying “I do,” she thought about running, but one second look assured her she was marrying the man meant for her. Their secret to a strong, lasting marriage? Open communication, never going to bed angry, and always saying “I love you.”
On January 24, 2025, Laurie’s beloved husband Verne passed away. She was by his side, just as she had been throughout their incredible life together. Their love story, which spanned decades, remains an inspiring example of devotion, faith, and commitment.
Laurie’s career was as impressive as her personal life. She began working with the Internal Revenue and Navy Department, later retiring from the Department of Defense (Navy). Even in retirement, her work ethic led her to serve five more years with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Alongside her professional achievements, she nurtured a love for writing stories and interior design—hobbies that brought her both joy and peace.
Together, Laurie and Verne raised four sons: Verne McCray Hedgpeth Jr., Zachery Don Hedgpeth, Jacques Pierre Hedgpeth and Eric Colliam Hedgpeth, who has preceded her in death. She credits their upbringing to a strong household foundation and keeping them active in sports, which helped instill discipline and character.
Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren—Marcus, Jasmin, Matthew, Joy, Courtney, Pierre, Briana, and Ryan Hedgpeth—as well as 13 beautiful great-grandchildren. Although many of her siblings have passed on, her siblings Barbara, Elsie and William continue to share in her journey through life.
Laurie Belle Hedgpeth’s life is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and legacy. Through the joys and sorrows, she has remained a pillar of strength and grace for her family—an enduring matriarch whose story will live on through the generations she’s inspired.
The family will receive friends on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA. The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Darryl Hedgpeth officiating.
Interment will follow at Culpeper National Cemetery, 501 E. Chandler Street, Culpeper, VA.
What’s your fondest memory of Laurie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Laurie?
Share a story where Laurie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Laurie you’ll never forget.
How did Laurie make you smile?
