TJ Class of 1965
- Richmond, Virginia -
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Click here for the Tee Jay Vikings Fund website
The Tee Jay Vikings Fund is a charitable, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization EIN#(45-5164961) that focuses on philanthropic/financial support and interest in Thomas Jefferson High School scholastics, athletics, music, arts and science.
Updated Nov. 2022
and stories from classmates who served our Country
(Click on the link above)
Click on the link above to view "old" classmate news.
We hope that 2024 has been a good year for you and your family.
This was another banner year for TJ as the school became fully accredited, football completed another undefeated regular season, and the band won numerous trophies in competition. Some of The Vikings Fund’s accomplishments include:
• Our students needed meals when participating in extracurriculars, especially at away games, so we provided nearly 1,000 meals from Mr. Submarine.
• We awarded two scholarships to graduating seniors for the sixth consecutive year. 2024’s winners of the $2,000 scholarships are studying at Howard and Norfolk State. We are currently raising funds for the Class of 2025 scholarships.
• We celebrated our teachers and staff with box lunches from Padow’s (owned by a TJ alum) during Teacher Appreciation Week in May and before school began in August. We also provided teaching supplies.
• In the Spring, we partnered with the basketball teams to purchase a Shoot-A-Way basketball shooting machine.
• In the Fall, we partnered with the band to purchase 45 wind suits.
• We partnered with TeeJay Live (the student media club) to purchase a new camera.
• We continued our support of the Library Reading Program by providing Amazon Gift Cards for the monthly and yearly winners.
• We purchased new whiteboards for multiple classrooms.
• We purchased footballs for the football team and helped fund their participation in two summer camps.
We are so grateful to our loyal and new supporters. All of this was possible due to your generosity. THANK YOU!
As 2024 comes to an end, we hope you will continue your support of TJ students, faculty, and staff. We look forward to a great year in 2025 and wish you a happy and prosperous new year.
Your Tee Jay Vikings Fund
Please consider a contribution via our website ( https://teejayvikingsfund.org/donations/tjvf/
) or by mail to: “Tee Jay Vikings Fund” at PO Box 11451, Richmond, VA 23230. The Vikings Fund is a 501 (c)(3) eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
Classmates, Lost but not forgotten - click here
Posted since our 40th reunion - click here
If provided, obituaries may be viewed by clicking on the above link.
Sue Kessler Yerby's husband
Pat spent most of his childhood in Ghent, on Graydon Avenue and W. Princess Anne Road. He was a dedicated paper boy, an on-call altar boy (living a block away from Sacred Heart Church), and he and Chic were top dogs in the gang of kids who had secret clubhouses, baseball games, and wrestling matches outside their apartments in Graydon Park. Their movie going exploits at the Visulite Theatre Saturday matinees were legendary according to Pat—whose stories of adventures never got old, no matter how many times told.
After graduating from Maury High School, Pat enrolled at Old Dominion University in 1962. Working full time while attending class part time, Pat was in no hurry to get his degree. Nor did Pat allow academics to interfere with his being the life of the party. (He later dubbed this period his “Decade of Delight.”) Pat’s priorities were wiser than one might think as they led him to meet Sue on a winter night in 1968 at ODU watering hole the King’s Head Inn.
Pat and Sue married in 1970. With Sue’s “encouragement,” Pat graduated from ODU two years later, becoming the first member of his family to get his degree.
The births of Patrick and Ryan followed. Pat wanted to his first born to have both his legal name and his nickname, but compromised with Sue on “John Patrick.” As explained by Pat, his name choice for his second son was “Peevine Wendell.” Luckily for Ryan, Sue put a damper on that one too.
Pat was a master storyteller and a charmer—he collected friends from every period of his life who still hold him dear, and he them. He was loved and respected by his colleagues at Nissan Motor Corporation, and his career took off, leading to promotions and relocations around the country. He spent the last few years of his career at Gulf States Toyota.
As a father, he provided an example that family meant everything. Having a sense of humor and a zeal for fun were not far behind. The Yerby home featured frequent wrestling matches pitting a tag team of Patrick and Ryan versus “Sargeant Daddy,” who would enter the ring (living room) wearing long johns, boots, a cowboy hat, and Sue’s bathrobe. Sargeant Daddy relished his role as the villain, resorting to underhanded tactics while the referee wasn’t looking. But his boys would inevitably prevail.
Pat found solace in his family and friends during his most difficult time. In 1992, his mother died from cancer. This deeply affected Pat and magnified the importance to him of his church, which allowed him to maintain connection with his mother.
When Pat’s first grandchild Anthony was born, Pat selected “Handsome” to be his grandfather name, and it became his name to all who knew him. No one held it against Handsome that he was, in fact, handsome.
After retiring from the car business, Pat and Sue returned to Norfolk in 2007. Pat’s sister Nancy was then diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. From that point on, Pat was a constant presence with Nancy. When Nancy entered the memory care unit at the Ballentine, Pat visited her daily until her passing in 2021.
In 2023, Pat began exhibiting memory issues and, like Nancy, was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Though the disease was taking its toll, he retained his positive outlook and sense of humor – still everyone’s beloved “Handsome.” Sue kept him in one piece, scheduling doctor’s appointments, managing medications, and reminding Pat of the things his disease sought to obscure.
On Pat’s final day, he went for a walk with his family. He collapsed and lost consciousness instantly, though he maintained vital signs for the next several hours. The moment the priest finished administering the Last Rites in the hospital, his heart stopped beating and he passed away. Facing the unavoidable path he had traveled with his sister, Pat died the same way he lived: with kindness and concern for all around him.
A service celebrating Pat’s life will be held at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apartments, 1501 Colonial Ave., Norfolk, on January 18, 2025, at 2:00PM. A reception at the Norfolk Yacht & Country Club will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Southeastern Virginia Chapter or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with all our thanks. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.
H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Inc., Norfolk [www.hdoliver.com]
Helen Clanton Boynton's husband
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Attn: Advancement Office, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85259, or your favorite charity.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Sep. 28, 2024.
Jimmy Yoffy's wife's mother
Ann Levy Bendheim
August 9, 1924 - December 9, 2024
Ann Bendheim died Monday, December 9, 2024 at her home at Cedarfield in Richmond, VA, at the age 100.
Ann is preceded in by the love of her life, Richard (Dick) Bendheim, just shy of their 55th wedding anniversary; her daughter, Judy Bendheim Goldstein; and her dear friend of many years, Henry (Boo) Gunst.
She is survived by her daughter, Kate (Jimmy) Yoffy; and son-in-law, Bruce Goldstein (Lorraine); grandchildren, Jennifer Yoffy (Ben Wise), Jonathan Goldstein (Lorraine), and Michael Goldstein; great-grandchildren, Jonah, Lila, and Sabine Schwartz, Tyler and Jake Goldstein.
Ann was a loving wife, mother and friend. She was a loyal volunteer in her younger days serving on the board of Beth Ahabah Sisterhood, the board of Jewish Family Services, and as a junior board of Retreat Hospital.
Both Ann and Dick were staunch supporters of the Hospitality House (the Doorways) since it's inception some 40+ years ago when it was formally Zeigler House. She continued her support throughout the years by going to the House every Christmas day to service dinner to the residents who were staying at the House while their loved ones were in the hospital.
Ann's family is eternity grateful to the loving and caring aides from both Commonwise Homecare and Jewish Family Services, the nursing staff at Cedarfield, and Kirva Hospice.
A graveside service will be held at Hebrew Cemetery, 4th and Hospital St., on Friday, December 13, 2024, 11 a..m.
If you so desire, please consider making a donation in Ann's memory to the Temple Operating Fund at Congregation Beth Ahabah, 1121 West Franklin St., Richmond, VA 23220.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Donald and Debbie Lahy's son
Jamie was born in Richmond, VA [10/02/1979] and died suddenly on September 9, 2024 in Richmond, Virginia.
Jamie is survived by his parents, Debbie and Donald Lahy; his sister, Mary-Ellen Suttle (Sam); and his brothers, Christopher Lahy and Timothy Lahy; he is also survived by his nieces, Anne-Wesson Suttle, Mary-Quinn Suttle, and Madison Lahy. Jamie adored his nieces and loved every minute that he could spend with them.
Jamie graduated from Douglas Freeman High School in Richmond, VA and Clemson University in South Carolina. He received advanced degrees in science and special education from The College of William and Mary and The University of Richmond.
Jamie was a teacher at Sabot School. He loved teaching, and loved every student that he taught. He was a person with many interests and talents. He bred, raised, trained, and showed Norwich terriers and Komondors. He had a special Norwich terrier, Jam Jam that he trained and took to The Westminster Dog Show and showed in agility. Jamie was a member of All Saints Episcopal Church where he was part of the All Saints Choir of Men and Boys. He loved music and was a fantastic banjo player! Jamie also enjoyed flying kites at the beach and often flew five or more kites at one time.
There will be a service of remembrance for the Sabot School on Sunday, September 29.
Jamie's family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, October 2 at Bliley's Central, 3801 Augusta Avenue, Richmond, VA. 23230.
Jamie will rest in the Columbarium and Memorial Garden at the University of Richmond. Funeral services are private.
Jamie's life is exemplified in one of his favorite quotes: "By doing what you LOVE, you INSPIRE and awaken the hearts of others" by Satsuki Shibuya
Memorial contributions can be made to Sabot School through The Jamie Lahy Fund, www.sabotschool.org or at Sabot School, 3400 Stoney Point Road, Richmond VA 23235.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Sep. 22, 2024.
Jimmy Yoffy's mother
Ann was predeceased by her loving husband of 52 years, Lawrence (Larry) Yoffy. She is survived by her two sons, Kenny (Judy) and Jimmy (Katy) Yoffy; grandchildren, Jason (Julie), Austin and Jennifer Yoffy (Ben Wise); great grandchildren, Jude, Ellie, Lennon, and Pepper Yoffy, and Jonah, Lila, and Sabine Schwartz.
Ann attended the University of Wisconsin until she moved to Richmond to marry Larry in 1946. In addition to raising their two sons, Ann was employed at Liphart Steel and A. H. Robbins. While her husband pursued his career as a VP at Circuit City, she assumed the management of the family business, Rays Five and Dime on Grace Street. Ann took great pleasure in playing mah jong and bridge with her circle of friends, listening to classical music, opera and Frank Sinatra, and attending Broadway productions.
The family is most grateful to Cynthia and Paul Palmieri, her long time friends and care manager, and Tibi, her caregiver.
A graveside service will be held at Richmond Beth-El Cemetery at Forest Lawn on Wednesday, August 21 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ann's memory to the Temple Fund at Congregation Beth Ahabah, 1121 West Franklin Street, Richmond, Virginia 23220.
Cynthia Ellen Garnett Garner
Cynthia Ellen Garnett Garner, 77, peacefully departed this world with her two children by her side on July 15, 2024. She was beloved by everyone fortunate enough to have known her gentle, caring soul. She was born to Anna Grace Caudle and Eubank Wilson Garnett on April 22, 1947, and she is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Thomas Lavinder Garner; two devoted children, Stephanie Sawtelle Garner and Thomas Gregory Garner; two wonderful grandchildren, Jacob Thomas Scott and Anna McKinley Scott; a sister, Barbara Garnett Aiken (Charles); sister-in-law Elizabeth M. Garnett; brothers-in-law John E. Garner and Dearing L. Garner (Bobbie); nine nieces and nephews.
Cindy retired from Wheat First Securities, after many years in banking and investments, and held numerous positions at St. Mark's Episcopal Church where she celebrated the milestones of her life.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 520 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd on July 27, 2024 at 11 a.m. Family burial will be held later in Hollywood Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 4600 Cox Rd #130, Glen Allen, VA or St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 520 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA.
Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Jul. 21, 2024.
Courtenay Sommerville Welton, II
Lt. Col. (ret.) Courtenay Sommerville Welton, II passed away on June 18, 2024, surrounded by family in Richmond, Virginia.
Born in 1947 and then raised in The Fan, Courtenay was a quintessential son of Richmond. Courtenay then resided in northern Virginia, where he worked for the Department of Defense while also serving honorably in the U.S. Army Reserves as a distinguished public affairs officer and specialist. He returned to his beloved hometown after retirement.
A graduate of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), class of 1969, Courtenay cherished his alma mater, amassing a sizable collection of school-related memorabilia and article clippings over the years. He also valued his fellow “brother rats,” regularly meeting with other alumni in the Richmond area.
Outside his alumni circle, Courtenay was admired by his neighbors and often referred to as the unofficial “mayor” of the neighborhood. There was not a face he did not know, nor a canine companion that did not receive a treat upon encounter. He enjoyed walking his own beloved Norwich terrier, Clara, while surveying the neighborhood and talking to passersby.
Courtenay enjoyed travel and cooking, and he was never without a tale from his travels or an opportunity to share a recipe or dish with friends. He kept a chef's kitchen, and was never without an in-season Hanover tomato (pronounced “toMAHto”).
In addition to cooking, Courtenay was a skilled photographer, filling photographic libraries with color and culture.
To know Courtenay was to receive a clipped article from him. He read multiple newspapers daily, and maintained a vast library of articles and recipes of interest. He shared relevant articles via mail and doorstep to friends and family, when they were relevant to the recipient. Courtenay did not stop at consuming articles, however. He contributed countless letters to editors, as well as maintained two-way communication with printed journalists.
Courtenay is survived by his children, Courtenay Sommerville Welton, III (“Corey”), Kirsten (Welton) Shields, three grandchildren, Ayden Welton, Hailey Shields and Heidi Shields, and his sister, Lynn Welton.
To be published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch and the Washington Post
Larry Bernstein
BERNSTEIN, Larry Michael, of Richmond, 76, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Nora Bernstein. He is survived by his sister Gene Stahl (Frank) and brother Sandy Bernstein. He is also survived by his nieces Stefanie Walker (Rex) and Geri Adler (Andrew), his great niece and nephew Mollie and Liam Adler, and by many relatives and friends. Larry was a native Richmonder who graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1965. He completed his education at Richmond Professional Institute (VCU) in 1969 with degrees in education and business. After college, Larry joined Vista and spent two years in Wisconsin working with the Oneida Indians. After returning to Richmond he worked for Henrico County with the home bound school program. Most people will remember Larry from Disc Jockey Services. This was one of his true loves - music and making people happy for any occasion. His other love was Bernstein’s Remodeling which gave him the joy of making things and repairing anything someone needed. A celebration of life will take place on June 23 at 2:00 p.m. at Bliley’s Funeral Home, 3801 Augusta Ave. Please come with a story about Larry. If you are not able to attend in person, you can join virtually at
www.blileys.com.
Donations maybe made to Bon Secours Hospice, 2603 Nine Mile Road, Suite 220, Richmond, Va. 23223. The American Cancer Society, 4405 Cox Road, Suite 110, Glen Allen, Va. 23060, Attention Kathy Blencowe, or a charity of your choice.
Richard "Dick" Jenkins
Jenkins, "Dick" passed away on Friday, May 3, 2024.
A celebration of life will come later and there is no obit yet.
For Older Obituaries, Click Here
For Older Obituaries, Click Here
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TJ Class of 1965 only
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201
7
We did it!...Again...
“Class of 65 turns 70” Event
(
August 23, 2017)Four Tops and Temptations
at Innsbrook After Hours
Music, friends, food, and more (6:00-10:00 PM)
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Click here or on the image below to be redirected to:
Innsbrook After Hours Home Page
2015
We did it!
Read and/or listen to Ned Hood's toast to the Class of 1965 - click here
***Class Photo by Classmate John Henley***
Click on picture "KEY" below to see names:
Click here for original reunion details
50th REUNION - JUNE 12 - 14, 2015
Original Invitation and RSVP - for PDF - Click here
201
2
“65 turns 65” Party
(Held June 30 and July 1, 2012)
Original Invitation <-- click here
Pictures from the party <--click here
(If you have more - send them to us)
2010
45th Reunion
(Held October 1st - 3rd, 2010)
Click here for Reunion details
Click here to see who attended
2007
“65 does 60” Birthday Party
(Held April 28, 2007)
Original Invitation <-- click here
Pictures from the party <--click here
(If you have more - send them to us)
2006
“SWEET MEMORIES” DISTRIBUTION PARTY- click here
(Held February 25, 2006)
2005
( Held October 28th, 29th, and 30th, 2005)
1985
REUNIONS
Thanks to our "historian" [Ned Hood] we have added many pictures from our 20th reunion (1985) and our 40th reunion (2005).
Check them out here:
(click on selection below)
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ARCHIVES
(Click the above link to view older articles not on Homepage)
Photos and Comments from Classmates - click here
(Last updated 07/14/2017)
TJ - Then and Now - click here
Memory Lane - Selected 1965 yearbook pictures - click here
"forty65" Archives - click here
Memorabilia Store - click here