James A. Albano Jr., 77, of Virginia Beach, passed away after many years of battling Alzheimer’s disease. He was born and raised in Norfolk, a lifetime resident of Hampton Roads and president of Albano Cleaners.
He was the son of the late James A. Albano Sr. and Mildred Albis Albano. James was preceded in death by his sister, Lynne Albano Bowen; and his niece, Terri Orsini Pierce.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 38 years, Shirley Albano; four children, Jamie Albano (Robert Wilmans) of Williamsburg, Va., James Albano III (fiancé Beth Parks), Kim Childs (Thomas) and Lynn Carpenter (Keith); sister, Grace Albano Orsini; six grandchildren, Marie Plaine Weitzman (Andrew) of Fanwood, N.J., Lauren Plaine of Williamsburg, Va., James Albano IV, Mimi Albano, Brandon Carpenter and Brooke Carpenter; brother-in-law, Jack Bowen of Hagerstown, Md.; the mother of his children, Dorothy Gatling Russell; a host of cousins, nieces and nephews; and all the wonderful employees at Albano Cleaners.
A very special thank you to a wonderful and dedicated woman, Linda Henderson. She was Mr. Albano’s office and property manager as well as his personal assistant. Linda worked with “Mr. A” at the onset of his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She provided much support and comfort while transitioning “Mr. A” into a more peaceful existence at home. The family are most grateful for her tireless dedication and commitment, both professionally and personally.
Many thanks to Kathy Garris, his devoted personal caregiver while James was at home. Kathy served as “Mr. A’s” companion and “buddy” with a big heart for many years. She continued to care for “Mr. A” as he transitioned to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
The family also appreciates the love and attention provided by Virginia Cutler in the final stages of his Alzheimer’s disease. Thank you to the staff at Our Lady of Perpetual Help and to all who cared for James during the later stages of his Alzheimer’s Disease. The family is very grateful for all the loving hands that touched him and their deep understanding and compassion throughout this difficult journey.
A funeral Mass will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, Jan. 26, at Star of the Sea Catholic Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior beginning at noon.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association, Southeastern Virginia Chapter, 6350 Center Drive, Suite 102, Norfolk, VA 23502, noting in the memo area that donation to remain local.
Share online condolences with the family at hdoliver.com.
