Frazier, Cedric Hampton
Cedric Hampton Frazier (Zeke to many), 84, of Pearisburg, VA passed away on Tuesday, September 23rd, 2014 at Carilion Giles Community Hospital in Pearisburg. Born July 17, 1930, in Narrows, VA, he was the oldest of 3 sons to the late Henry Brown Frazier and Ruth Hale Frazier.
“Creep”, as Henry was more commonly known, was part of “America’s Greatest Generation” losing his life in the Battle of the Bulge in World War II in 1944. Cedric later carried his Dad’s heroism to Korea where he served as a medic during the conflict to halt the spread of communism.
Cedric was a 1947 graduate of Narrows High School and later a standout pitcher for the Emory and Henry College baseball team. With teammates Pete McGhee at shortstop and Bill Patteson at first base, the “Narrows Triumvirate” made memories that are still talked about today. He was married to Kathryn Brookman on January 27, 1951, and spent 57 glorious years with the woman he loved so dearly until her departure in 2008.
Cedric spent 34 years in the Giles County school system. After teaching a year of 6th grade at Narrows Elementary, he also taught at Pearisburg High School, was county wide elementary physical education instructor, and at one time coached football, basketball, and baseball at Giles High School, in addition to applying a Master’s Degree as a long time guidance counselor. Many a young man taking physical education at Giles will recall having their “hide” tanned by Coach Frazier.
In addition, Cedric was a lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church in Narrows serving his church proudly in many capacities. As Chairman of the Board in the early 1970’s, he played a pivotal role in the construction of a new sanctuary as well as maintaining and preserving the original building.
Left to cherish his memory and legacy is his only son, Bruce and his wife Heather of Pearisburg. His pride and joy were his 5 grandchildren: Steffan, who is currently working towards medical school, Kathryn, his only granddaughter, who is a junior at Virginia Tech, Gunar who is attending George Mason University, Bradley at 10 years of age and 5 year old Aiden Hampton Frazier. He is also survived by two brothers: Kenneth and wife Laura of Colfax, NC, and Jerry and wife Jean of Roanoke VA. He is also remembered fondly by in-laws Leona Martin of Narrows and Don and Pat Brookman of Pearisburg , as well as a host of nieces and nephews with Cindy Light of Narrows, and Tom and Jean Johnson, and Anna Ruth Rose of Salem, VA at the head of the list.
An avid fisherman, Cedric was a charter member of the Giles-Monroe Bassmasters Club founded in the late 60’s and early 70’s. His later years were highlighted by fishing trips to Claytor Lake made possible by a special relative in Al Saladiner. As a life- long gardener, Cedric enjoyed the company of his special friend John Hale of Narrows (also a roommate at Emory and Henry College) and the gardens that put their favorite vegetables on the table. Many a tomato plant will elicit fond memories for so many including Vicki Lafon and Babette Martin. A special thank you goes to Betty Stafford who provided such great care over the past several months.
Funeral services will be held Friday, September 26th, 2014 at 2 PM at First United Methodist Church in Narrows with Rev. Jason Stubblefield officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery in Narrows. The family will receive friends at Riffe’s Funeral Service Thursday from 6 to 9 PM.
The family is being served by Riffe’s Funeral Service in Narrows, (540) 726-2442, and online at riffefuneralservice.com.