TJ Class of 1965
- Richmond, Virginia -
60th CLASS REUNION WAS ANOTHER GREAT ONE
OCTOBER 10 - 12, 2025
***See
the fun
and see who came by clicking here!***
(Pictures and videos from the weekend are now posted)
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.
August 10, 2026
Dear
Friends and TJ Supporters,
We
are excited to share that Richmond BizSense published a story highlighting the
Vikings Fund’s project to clean the exterior façade of our historic Thomas
Jefferson High School! Please
click here to read the story.
Thanks
to the generosity of our incredible donors, we have already raised
approximately $16,000 in just three weeks toward our $63,000 goal.
All
donations received by the Vikings Fund through December 31, 2026, will go
directly toward this exterior cleaning project (unless otherwise specified).
How
to donate:
-
Donate Online: Visit TeeJayVikingsFund.org
-
Donate by Mail: Send a check to Tee Jay Vikings Fund, PO Box 11451, Richmond, VA 23230
-
Dedications: Honor or dedicate your gift by leaving a note via the Contact TJVF link on our website.
The
Tee Jay Vikings Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization; all donations are
tax-deductible. Please consider
forwarding this email to alumni, potential supporters, and friends of TJ!
With
gratitude,
Your
Tee Jay Vikings Fund
(Scroll
down to see a stunning before-and-after photo of the exterior cleaning! A
special thank you to our trusted partner, Envirowash, who graciously cleaned
the building in late July while allowing the Vikings Fund to fundraise for the
remainder of 2026.)
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.
From 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.
Sandy JONES Kerr's Husband
James Bruce Kerr
Oct 25, 1946 - Aug 11, 2026
James Bruce "Butch" Kerr of Richmond, Va., passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, at the age of 79.
He was born on October 25, 1946, to Florence Bricker Kerr and John Ward Kerr. Although Bruce was born in Richmond, his childhood was spent living in various states across the country as his father was active duty in the U.S. Air Force. Bruce was known for his patience, kindness. and honesty, qualities that touched the lives of everyone around him. His love for his family was unwavering, and his gentle spirit will be deeply missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, John "Jackie" Ward Kerr, Jr. (Carole Ann). He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sandra Jones Kerr; daughters, Cindy Kerr of Tempe, Ariz., and Leah Chandler (Matt) of Joppa, Md.; sister, Betty Hicks (Ray) of Portsmouth, Va., grandchildren, Kerri, Steven, and Breanna; and several nieces and nephews. He was a loving father and devoted husband.
Bruce served two years in the army during the Vietnam War and was a volunteer EMT with the Forrest View Rescue Squad for several years. He was a member of the American Legion. Manchester Masonic Lodge Number 14 AF and AM, and Manchester Moose Lodge 699. An active member of Bon Air United Methodist for over 40 years, Bruce most recently organized the usher and communion stewards there. He proudly served as an Officer of Election in Chesterfield County, dedicating long hours to ensuring that members of his community could vote freely, fairly and without fear. His commitment to public service reflected his deep love for his country and for his community. He believed in the importance of every person's voice being heard. Through his service, he made a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him. He left behind a legacy of integrity, dedication, and civic responsibility. He will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him
Bruce graduated with a BS in Biology from the College of William and Mary in 1968 and a BS in pharmacy from VCU in 1974. He worked as a pharmacist for 40 years at Standard Drug, Sycamore Cardinal Drug, K-Mart and Rite Aid. During his retirement he enjoyed golfing, volleyball, traveling, and volunteering.
A viewing will be held at 10 a.m. and funeral service at 11 a.m. on August 14, 2026, at Bon Air United Methodist Church. A graveside burial service at Mount Hermon Baptist Church at 3 p.m. on August 14, 2026. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Virginia Animal League, Belmont Food Pantry, Bon Air United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choosing.
We would like to thank all the staff at Virginia Urology, especially Dr. Blurton, the V. A. Hospital Outpatient and Inpatient Oncology, especially Dr. Willard as well as Johns Hopkins Cancer Center. We would like to also thank the caring staff at Serenity Hospice, especially our dedicated nurse, Gen-Nine.
Howard Irving Horwitz
Howard Irving Horwitz passed away peacefully on July 7, 2026, with his family by his side. He was 78 years old. Howard was born and grew up in Richmond Virginia, the son of Seymour and Esther Fishman Horwitz of blessed memory. He graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and the University of Virginia. Following graduation, he taught high school English in what was then Nansemond County, which brought him to the Tidewater area. There he met the love of his life, Susan, his wife of 47 years. He also became active in the synagogue in Suffolk, Agudath Achim, and later in Congregation Beth El in Norfolk. Both Howard and Susan had long careers in the real estate business.
Howard's true profession, however, was music. He started playing violin in the 4th grade and never stopped, finding many opportunities to play publicly in settings small and large. He joined the Virginia Beach Symphony Orchestra over 30 years ago and played with the orchestra (now named Symphonicity) until last year.
Howard is survived by his wife Susan, son David, and daughter Kerri. He also survived by his sister Sylvia (Dov Weitman), in-laws, cousins and many friends who have loved and appreciated his kindness, sense of humor, and intelligence over the years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Symphonicity or the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
Funeral services will take place on Friday, July 10, 2026 at 10:00am at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. 1501 Colonial Ave., Norfolk, VA. Burial to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.
Susan FOSTER Stanley
August 21, 1947 - July 4, 2026
Susan Foster Stanley, 78, of Richmond, Va., died peacefully on July 4, 2026. Born on August 21, 1947, in Richmond, Va., Susan was a lifelong resident of the place she proudly called home.
Susan was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry Preston Stanley, who passed away just six months to the day prior to her. She is also reunited in Heaven with her parents, Harry Holland Foster and Hilda Webster Foster.
One thing anyone who knew Susan could confirm was her devotion to her family. She was the proud mother to Sarah Muse Buss (David), and Elizabeth Muse Stowers (Eric). She was a devoted 'Granna' to her treasured grandchildren, Hartley Grace Buss, Miller Charles Buss, and Jaxon Muse Stowers, each of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life. She is also survived by her sister, Eileen Foster Beane (Al); nephew, Albert Tyson Beane III; and beloved niece, Ellen Beane Wright (Brian).
Susan dedicated her professional life to serving students and families through public education in the Henrico County school system. She spent 25 years as a home economics and family life science teacher at both Henrico High School and Byrd Middle School. She left the classroom in 2000 to serve as Executive Director for the Henrico Education Foundation, fundraising for the county for over a decade prior to her retirement in 2014.
Susan found her greatest happiness in the people and places she loved most. She cherished time spent with Skip in the mountains of Bayse, Va., as well as girls' weeks spent on the Mattaponi River. You could often find Susan with a hot cup of tea, enjoying a good book, or tending her garden.
Those who knew Susan will remember her for her kind and generous spirit, her grace-filled demeanor, and her warm smile that could light up a room. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she influenced, the family she adored, and her example of faithfulness.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 12 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at the West Chapel of Bennett Funeral Home, 11020 W. Broad Street, Glen Allen, Va. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 13, at River Road Church, Baptist, 8000 River Road.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Communities In Schools of Chesterfield, 1808 Coyote Drive, Suite 100, Chester, VA 23836, www.cisofchesterfield.org
Carolyn Diane HANKS Aldridge
February 6, 1947 – June 8, 2026
Carolyn Diane Hanks Aldridge, age 79, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed peacefully in her home on June 8, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on February 6, 1947, in Richmond, Virginia, she lived a life defined by devotion to her family and her faith.
She was preceded in death by her parents, George Edward Hanks Jr. and Daisy Mae Buck Hanks, and sister Linda Hanks Threadgill. She is survived by her three children, Jerry Wayne “Jay” Aldridge Jr., Kimberly Aldridge Tarquine and husband David, and Amy Massey Aldridge. She is also survived by her grandson, Christian Ruedy Aldridge and wife Joanna Izaguirre; her sister, Sharon Hanks Powell and husband Gary; as well as nieces, cousins, and extended family.
After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond, she began her life as a homemaker, a role she cherished. She loved taking her children to swim practice, dance lessons, orchestra rehearsals, and their many other activities. She was also active in the community, serving on the Altar Guild of Trinity Episcopal Church in Fredericksburg and volunteering at Mary Washington Hospital.
Carolyn lived with style, grace, and an incredible sense of humor. She was always impeccably dressed and never left the house without her hair and makeup done. Among her many interests, she loved the performing arts, traveling the world on cruises, and dancing to her favorite music. She was perhaps most in her element at Christmastime when she gave generously and prepared a holiday feast for her family, always featuring her signature country ham.
The family will receive friends for visitation at Woody Funeral Home, 1771 North Parham Road, Richmond, on Wednesday, June 17 from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm. A graveside service will immediately follow at 2:00 pm at Westhampton Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to a charitable organization of your choice in Carolyn’s memory.
Marcy Justa Cotton's Husband
He married Marcy A. Justa in 1973. They raised two children together in Rockville, Maryland until 1995, when they moved to Omaha, Nebraska. In 2013, Ira sold his snowblower and the family moved to Naples, FL.
Ira served at the National Bureau of Standards, later moving into the private sector. He worked as a business management and information technology consultant at Booze Allen Hamilton and Martin Marietta. He then held leadership roles at First Data Resources, Inc. and IBM.
Ira was an avid outdoorsman. He most loved being on the water with a fishing rod in hand. He also enjoyed stamp collecting and was a life member of the American Philatelic Society. In recent years, Ira focused this passion on fish and game stamps and licenses, authoring several handbooks and valuation guides about them. He also served more than three terms as President of the National Duck Stamp Collectors Society.
Ira is remembered as a man of integrity who had a good sense of humor. He was preceded in death by his parents and infant brother, Lawrence. He is survived by his wife Marcy; daughters Anna and Amy (Margot Friedman) Cotton; sister Candace (Michael Saft) Cotton; brother Jon Cotton; and extended family and friends. A funeral service will be at Temple Shalom, 4630 Pine Ridge Road, at 4 pm on Sunday, March 8 and via livestream.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributions in Ira’s memory to Temple Shalom of Naples, FL (https://www.naplestemple.org), the Conservancy of Southwest Florida (https://conservancy.org/), Avow Hospice (https://avowcares.org/), or our walk team page for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (https://secure.pancan.org/site/TR/PurpleStride/PurpleStride?pg=team&team_id=71246&fr_id=3119).
Kay MARTIN Just Shapiro's Son
Donnie's first love was baseball, from Tuckahoe Little League to college scholarship. He was a record holder and star player at Radford University. Recently, he was recognized for his accomplishments with a plaque dedicating their new home dugout to him.
After graduating he moved to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to manage the Tranquil House Inn in Manteo. There he designed and created the nationally recognized 1587 Restaurant.
Most importantly, Donnie loved his children fiercely. He actively participated in all aspects of their lives. He coached every sports team and was always the proudest dad at every event.
Donnie was predeceased by his father, Donald Ray Just and his aunt, Sallie Cross(Richard). He is survived by his mother, Kay Shapiro(Jerry) and his wife, Audra. He has four beautiful children, Trey Just, Madison Just, Ada Just and Maggie Just. He is survived by five brothers, Chris Just(Allison), Matt Brent(Sarah), Keith Just, Steven Just and Robbin Just. He was also blessed to have the love and support of the entire Goldsmith clan and cousins from both families.
A private celebration of his life is being planned for friends and family in the near future.
He went before his time and will be sorely missed.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Jan. 11, 2026.
Susan FOSTER Stanley's Husband
Harry "Skip" Stanley
April 14, 1950 - January 7, 2026
Harry Preston "Skip" Stanley, age 75, of Richmond, Virginia, passed away on January 7, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Lee Stanley and Elsie Preston Stanley.
Skip is survived by his wife of 42 years, Susan Foster Stanley; his daughters, Sarah Buss (David) and Elizabeth Stowers (Eric); and his beloved grandchildren, Hartley Buss, Miller Buss, and Jaxon Stowers.
When Skip married Susan, he didn't just choose a wife, but a family. His generosity, steady presence, and unconditional love shaped their lives and the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
A graduate of Elon University and Union Theological Seminary, Skip began his professional life in ministry, serving at several churches in the Richmond area. He later spent the majority of his career overseeing group homes for Chesterfield County Mental Health, where his compassion and dedication to helping others were evident every day. No matter the role, Skip's heart was always centered on service. He gave freely of his time, his resources, and himself, consistently putting others before his own needs.
Skip grew up in Burlington, North Carolina, and carried with him a lifelong love of music-especially the Rolling Stones. He found joy in beach music and time in the mountains. He was known for his extraordinary generosity, particularly at birthdays and Christmas, where his joy came not just from giving gifts, but from creating moments of happiness and connection.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, January 15, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at Bennett's Funeral Home in Glen Allen, Virginia. A service to celebrate Skip's life will be held on Friday, January 16, at 3:00 p.m., at the same location.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Skip's name to Communities In Schools of Chesterfield (1808 Coyote Drive, Suite 100, Chester, VA 23836 or www.cisofchesterfield.org).
Skip will always be remembered for his generous spirit, his deep and constant love for family, his commitment to serving others, and the quiet, lasting way he made the world better, one person at a time. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so well.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
For Older Obituaries, Click Here
*******************************
TJ Class of 1965 only
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or
Classmate Information Update Form - click here
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Become a TJ Class of 1965 Benefactor - click here
View current list of Benefactors - click here
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)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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