Obituary of Joseph Andrew Brydie

Joseph Andrew Brydie, Sr., son of the late Burnett Brydie and Edna Brown Brydie. He was born in Cumberland County, Virginia on May 2, 1920. At an early age Joseph was baptized at Rising Zion Baptist Church and attended Pine Grove School; both in Cumberland County Virginia. After completing his education, Joseph moved north for work opportunities. While still connected with his hometown through his heartstrings, Joseph won the heart of his belle, Elmina. Joseph joined in holy matrimony with Elmina Merlin Brown, on February 15, 1941. He was called to military duty in December of 1942. He served as a Buffalo Soldier in the European and Pacific Theatre in the U.S. Army, during World War II. He received an honorable discharge in January of 1946, and returned home to his wife. Joseph worked as a chef for most of his life. He was employed by the Homestead Hotel in Hot Springs, Virginia for over 30 years. After leaving the Homestead, he was employed by the Ramada Inn, in Sandston Virginia. After many years of cooking, he retired and began a new career with the Powhatan County School System, as a mail carrier. He began employment with the school system in 1984 and remained a loyal employee until his final retirement in 1995.He served as a faithful trustee and deacon at Rising Zion Baptist Church until the illness of his wife. Joseph faithfully served his wife until his health began to fail. Joseph leaves to cherish in loving memory: his wife of seventy years, Elmina Brown Brydie; born to this union, were five children, two sons and three daughters, Joseph A. Brydie Jr. (Shirley), Charlie A. Brydie (Renee), Elvera B. Tenette (Ronaldo), Alice B. Bell (Darrick), Shelly B. Gray (Carlton); from these unions there are ten grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He also leaves four nephews, Talton Moses, Frank Farrington, Burnett (Keith) Brydie (devoted), Gregory Brydie; four great-nieces, three great-nephews, and one great-great niece; also, devoted friends, Mr. Floyd Bates, Corrine, Tony and Curtis Rowlette.