Laurie Belle 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.
Laurie’s legacy is one of deep, unconditional love, steadfast strength, and a remarkable warmth that made all who knew her feel cared for. She was preceded in death by her parents; six siblings; her loving husband, Verne McCray Sr.; and her beloved son, Eric Colliam.
She leaves behind a devoted family who will forever cherish her memory, including her three sons, Verne McCray Jr. (Yelba), Zachary Don (Gloria), and Jacques Pierre (JaJuan). She is also survived by her two sisters, Elsie and Barbara, and her brother, William.
Laurie was a proud grandmother to nine grandchildren—Marcus, Jasmin, Matthew, Marc, Joy, Pierre, Courtney, Briana, and Ryan—and a beloved great-grandmother to twelve great-grandchildren. She is also remembered with love by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who will miss her dearly.
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 Deral Hedgpeth officiating.
The family invites those unable to attend to watch via livestream at https://together.oneroomstreaming.com/73PUG9
Interment will follow at Culpeper National Cemetery, 501 E. Chandler Street, Culpeper, VA.
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