Roger Dale Everett, 77, of Chesapeake, Virginia, passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026.

Roger was born on December 3, 1948, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to the late Herman Edward Everett and Juanita Louise Walker Everett Summers. As the son of a military family, he spent his childhood living around the world, an experience that shaped his resilience and appreciation for people from all walks of life.

In March 1968, Roger answered his country's call to serve by enlisting in the United States Army. He served honorably and completed two tours of duty in Vietnam. Although Roger rarely spoke about his experiences during the war, his family later learned that he quietly rose through the ranks and received numerous medals and commendations for his courage, dedication, and unwavering service to America.

Following his military service, Roger returned to the United States. During a brief 30-day visit to Virginia in September 1969, his father introduced him to a coworker, Vernna Mae Bragg. Family legend has it that Roger and Vernna fell in love instantly. In May 1970, they were married, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span more than 56 years.

Together, Roger and Vernna made their home in Chesapeake, Virginia, where they raised their four children: Leslie, Franklin, Mark, and Joseph.

Roger's family was the center of his world. Anyone fortunate enough to meet him quickly learned about his children, his "bonus" children—his children's spouses, David Patterson, Christina Everett, Jessica Everett, and Sandi Reed—his cherished grandchildren, Gannon O'Yenik (Jordan), Sophia O'Yenik, Paiton Everett, Olivia Everett, Victoria Everett, and Branson Everett, and even his beloved "grand pups": Jonah, Juno, Hurley, Mason, Gus, Topper, Reesie, and Riley. Roger never missed an opportunity to share a story, an update, or a photo of the people he loved most.

Roger enjoyed a successful career as a professional truck driver until his retirement in 2010. His dedication extended far beyond his work behind the wheel. Alongside his dear friend and fellow Teamster, Bill Haley, Roger became a tireless advocate for his fellow union members and their pensions. When those pensions were threatened, Roger organized protests, marched at the United States Capitol, testified before pension committees, and spoke before state and federal congressional representatives. He believed in standing up for what was right and fought passionately for causes that mattered.

While Roger was proud of his professional accomplishments and advocacy, there was never any doubt that his greatest joy was his family. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, and an extraordinary "Granddaddy." No matter the distance or the sacrifice required, Roger made every effort to attend his children's and grandchildren's sporting events, performances, graduations, and milestones. His presence was constant, his encouragement unwavering, and his pride immeasurable. He was his family's greatest cheerleader.

In his spare time, Roger developed a passion for classic cars. In 1992, he purchased what many considered nothing more than a rusted-out 1955 Chevrolet. Together with his faithful sidekick, Doug O'Yenik, he spent six years transforming that forgotten car into a stunning, award-winning showpiece. Although Leslie and Doug jokingly told Roger the car would probably never win a trophy, Roger once again proved the doubters wrong, taking home awards at nearly every car show he entered.

Known throughout the Tidewater area, Roger's bright red, flame-painted 1955 Chevrolet became one of a kind. More importantly, restoring and showing the car gave Roger a meaningful outlet to help heal the emotional wounds left by the Vietnam War. Through his love of classic cars, he found renewed purpose, lifelong friendships with fellow veterans and car enthusiasts, and a supportive community. He became an active member of the Cars for Christ vintage car club, where he further strengthened his faith and spiritual life.

In addition to his beloved family, Roger is survived by two extraordinary caregivers, Michael Werne and Lorraine Murphy. Their unwavering compassion, friendship, and devoted care for both Roger and Vernna were truly priceless, and the family will forever be grateful for the love they shared.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Edward Everett and Juanita Louise Walker Everett Summers; his sister, Bonnie Everett Metts; and his brother, Roy Everett.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at the VA Hospice House in Hampton, Virginia. Their kindness, compassion, dignity, and exceptional care brought comfort to Roger and his family and were instrumental in helping him transition peacefully to his eternal home.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Roger's life on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 11:30am, at the Retreat At Edinburgh Farms Clubhouse 2212 Edwin Drive, Chesapeake, Virginia 23322

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Veterans Affair Hospice House in Hampton, Virginia honoring the compassionate care Roger received during his final days. https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/

Parr Funeral Home & Crematory is serving the family.