NEWPORT NEWS - On June 26, 2005, Vernie Louise Freeman Burge departed this life peacefully at her home in Newport News. Born March 26, 1920, in Poquoson, she was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Sarah Emma Freeman; her brother, Benjamin Austin Freeman; two sisters, Violet Freeman Saunders and Myrtle Freeman Johnson; and her son, Joseph Harry Burge Jr. She leaves behind to cherish her precious memory her loving husband, Joseph Harry Burge Sr.; her daughter, Sarah Ellen Burge Faison and husband, David; three grandchildren, Natalie Louise Faison Harris and husband, Phillip, Benjamin Joseph Burge and Leslie Gail Burge; her daughter-in-law, Melita Gail Burge; her sister-in-law, Lillie Butler Freeman; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Vernie graduated from Poquoson High School as salutatorian in 1937. She continued her academic career at Riverside School of Nursing, completing her training as a registered nurse in 1942. She retired from Newport News Shipbuilding and Drydock Co. in 1978 as a head nurse of the Main Medical Emergency Clinic. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and the Ladies Bible Class The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at Claytor Rollins Funeral Home, Poquoson, and other times at the home. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at Trinity United Methodist Church by the Rev. James D. Thomas. Burial will follow at Parklawn Memorial Park, Hampton. The family wishes to thank all of the friends and family for their prayers and support during the last few months of her illness. We especially wish to thank the precious women who have been not only round the clock caregivers, but friends and prayer warriors as well. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Church, 1294 Poquoson Ave., Poquoson, VA 23662.

Obituary, Daily Press, June 27, 2005.