Goochland Resident Vernon Lee Crumpler Jr. Dies at 80

Vernon Lee Crumpler Jr., a Goochland-area resident whose career in public service spanned law enforcement, corrections, firefighting, and youth mentorship, died February 18, 2026, at the age of 80. His obituary notice was published March 25 in connection with the Richmond Times-Dispatch and posted on Legacy.com.

A graduate of Frederick Military Academy in Portsmouth, Crumpler went on to serve as a Virginia State Trooper before transitioning to Virginia Correctional Enterprises, where he held the position of Manager of the Tag Shop. His professional life was defined by sustained commitment to public institutions, and colleagues remembered his leadership as leaving a lasting impression.

That commitment extended well into his personal time. Crumpler volunteered with both Goochland County Fire and Rescue and the Tuckahoe Volunteer Rescue Squad, giving years of service to the county he called home. He also led the America Division of the U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps, where he mentored young people in what his family described as shaping "many future leaders."

His Masonic affiliation was central to his identity. The memorial notice published in the Virginian-Pilot opened with the Masonic honorific "Worshipful," reflecting his standing within the fraternal order. The family asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Masonic Home of Virginia or the Scottish Rite Childhood Language Center.

Crumpler was predeceased by his wives, Mary Gilmore Beazley and Alice Raye Marks; his parents, Vernon Lee Sr. and Alice Victoria; and his sister, Alice Victoria Stevens. He is survived by five children, 11 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, along with a large extended family.

Friend Nelson Curtis wrote in the Legacy.com guestbook: "A finer, kinder man I have never known. He is now with his Bride again in heaven!" Friend Amy Jones Williams added: "I know his life was better and more proud because of each of you."

Services were held in late February and early March. Visitation took place February 28 at Norman Funeral Chapel, 2982 River Road West in Goochland, from 4 to 6 p.m., with the casket closing at 4:30. The funeral service followed March 1 at Gum Spring United Methodist Church, 191 Cross County Rd in Gum Spring, at 3 p.m. Interment was held March 2 at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8100 Granby St in Norfolk, at 11 a.m. Arrangements were handled by Norman Funeral Chapel, operating under Sheridan Funeral Home.