Dr. Woodley J Koonce, III, “Woody”, 56, of Chesapeake, went to be with his Lord, after a courageous battle with lymphoma, Sunday, October 25, 2009. Born in New Bern, North Carolina, he was the son of the late Woodley J Koonce, Jr and Callie Rose Koonce. He was predeceased by a son, Woodley Matthew Koonce. A longtime resident of Chesapeake, Woody graduated from Great Bridge High School in 1971. He continued his education at Ferrum Junior College, he graduated from Old Dominion University, where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Health and Physical Education and a Masters Degree in Educational Administration. He later earned a Doctorate of Education from The George Washington University. After teaching several years in the Chesapeake School System, he began his administrative career as Assistant Principal at Chittum Elementary School and later at Great Bridge Junior High. Woody began his first position as Principal at Southeastern Elementary, moving to Crestwood Intermediate, Crestwood Middle School and Hickory Middle School. In 2007, he was appointed Principal of Hickory High School. He was the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions. Woody will be remembered for his positive, witty and humorous personality. He was an avid golfer and loved sports. He officiated football and wrestling for the Virginia High School League. Most of all, Woody will be remembered as a wonderful, loving, husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

Survivors include his loving wife, Vickie B. Koonce; two daughters, Kristy Koonce Hedrick and husband Jason and Tracy Koonce McClung and husband Kenton; six grandchildren, Jordan, Dylan, Charis, Justin, Emma and Tristan; two brothers, Donald A. Koonce and Dr. Glenn L. Koonce; a sister, Linda R. Koonce, nieces and nephews, Terrie, Kevin, Brian, Wendi, Jill, Kara, Kady, Ricky and Zachary.

The funeral service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at Great Bridge Baptist Church, 640 S. Battlefield Blvd., Chesapeake. Rev. Tom Mercer will officiate. The interment will follow in Chesapeake Memorial Gardens.

In recent months, the family has held vigil with Woody. At the family’s request, there will be no public viewing or visitation. The Family would like to express their sincere gratitude for the prayers, visits, cards and support over the past year. The outpouring of love and kindness will never be forgotten.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dr. Woodley J Koonce, III Memorial Scholarship Fund, C/O Hickory High School, 1996 Hawk Blvd., Chesapeake, VA 23322.

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