Walter Henderson Eley

Kill Devil Hills- Walter Henderson Eley died surrounded by family at home on Friday July 17, 2009.  He was 73.  Walter was born September 21, 1935 in Petersburg, Virginia. He was the son of the late Charles C. Eley and Annie Inge Eley and the brother of the late Richard Eley. He was also predeceased by his wife Betty Eley.

After completing high school, Walt served his country proudly in the United States Army.  Following his military service, Walt pursued many entrepreneurial ventures including owning two laundromats, a Dairy Tree restaurant, and a motel.  He was most proud of being the founder and the owner of the Ettrick Supermarkets of Petersburg.

Always willing to help others, Walt served actively in many civic organizations including The Moose Lodge, the Elks Club, and the Colonial Heights J.Cs.  After retiring to the Outer Banks with his wife of 24 years, Rae, Walt enjoyed his membership at the Duck woods Country Club and cherished his church family at Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church.

Surviving Walt Eley is his devoted wife Rae of the Kill Devil Hills residence; two sons Steve Eley and wife Sherry of Prince George, Virginia, and Murray Castellow and wife Debbie of Charlotte, North Carolina; four daughters Cindy Clark and husband Wayne of Prince George, Vicky Schrum and husband Will of Chesterfield, Virginia, Judy Eley of Chester, Virginia, and Candis George and husband Steve of Nags Head; nine grandchildren, Owen Heath, Charles Castellow, Andrew Castellow, Lindsey Koch, Jesse Ratliff and Sara Ratliff, Travis Monger, Blair Eley, and James Hurley; four great-grandchildren Roe Castellow, Emme Castello, Mallory Koch, and Bryce Koch; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who loved him.

A celebration of Walt’s life will be held Tuesday July 21, 2009 at 11 am at Kitty Hawk United Methodist Church.  Pastor Curtis Campbell will be officiating and Reverend Brad Bradshaw will be the eulogist.  A visitation will be held at church Monday July 20, 2009 from 6 O’clock to 8 O’clock in the evening.

Condolences to the family may be sent via the on-line register at www.galloopfuneralservices.  Gallop Funeral Services, Inc. was entrusted with arrangements.