Dennis Cornell Spain

Mr. Dennis C. Spain Sr., 77, of Chesapeake, Virginia, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on May 4, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.

Dennis was born in 1949 in Chase City, Virginia, to Glanzy M. Spain Sr. and Ernestine (Williams) Spain. He was one of nine siblings and grew up on the family farm, grounded in faith and strong values that shaped his life.

He proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard, dedicating more than 25 years of honorable service. Rising through the ranks, he retired as a Lieutenant. Even after retirement, his commitment continued as he worked as a civilian within the Coast Guard. At work, he was affectionately known as “Papa Smurf” because of his leadership, wisdom, and caring spirit. A lifelong learner, Dennis was also a graduate of Tidewater Community College, where he earned an Associate of Applied Science degree in Environmental Science with honors. Over the course of his career, he also served as a real-estate agent, insurance agent and mentor to many.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Dennis loved the Lord and was devoted to His Word. He was a faithful servant who found joy in worship, fellowship, and living out his beliefs daily. He served as a Deacon at New Light Full Gospel Baptist Church in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where he was a devoted member for more than 30 years.

To know Dennis was to know laughter, love, kindness, and humor. He spoke with warmth and insight, always offering words that reflected wisdom and care. He loved to travel and cook and found special joy in grilling for family and friends or preparing his famous sweet potato pies during the holidays. He was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan and could often be found dressed head-to-toe in Steelers apparel. He also loved music, especially R&B, Blues, and Gospel.

Dennis was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and patriarch who cherished time spent with family and friends.

He is survived by his best friend and beloved wife of 55 years, Johnnie L. Spain, affectionately known as Janice; his three children, Dennis C. Spain Jr. (Sepideh), Michael B. Spain (Cassandra), and Tara N. Spain; five siblings, Connie Jones (Waverly), Melba Fowlkes, Faye Watkins (Lee), Walter Spain (Camille), and Yvette Neal (Mack); ten grandchildren, Hannah Presson, Dennica Bradford, Tristian Mason, Raven Spain, Neveah Spain, Kevin Foster, Jason Foster, Kara Nasholts, Leia Raynor, and Chloe Spain Inga; seven great-grandchildren; and an abundance of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and dear friends who became family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three siblings, Naomi Spain, Michael B. Spain, and Glanzy M. Spain Jr.

Dennis leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, faith, wisdom, and joy that will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.

Public viewing will be held on Friday, May 15, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at P.G. Thomasson Funeral Services in Virginia Beach. Funeral services will take place on Saturday, May 16, at 11:00 a.m. at New Light Full Gospel Baptist Church in Virginia Beach, immediately followed by a repast. Burial will take place at the Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery at a later date.

Flowers may be sent to P.G. Thomasson Funeral Services, Virginia Beach, VA; or in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dennis’s memory to the Alzheimer's Association⁠.

This announcement is a courtesy of Giles-Harris Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chase City, VA.