Dale G. Browder, Jr. was born on April 19, 1962 in Virginia Beach, VA. He was the third child, and only son, of DeLena and Dale Browder, Sr. He graduated from Cox High School and Norfolk State University. He took great pride in being the only Virginia Beach native in our family, having been born in the original Va. Beach Hospital on 25th Street.
Following a family legacy of teaching in Virginia Beach schools, Dale spent his career of 25 years as a physical education teacher in several middle schools, including Plaza and Corporate Landing.
Dale loved sports and participated as a player and coach on many teams. He began playing community league football in elementary school and continued playing at Lynnhaven Middle School, Cox High School and Norfolk State University, excelling as a punter and place kicker. He also played for the Norfolk Neptunes, a semi-pro football team, resulting in tryouts for two professional football teams. He coached football and was privileged to touch the lives of many young people throughout his teaching and coaching career.
One of the activities he enjoyed most was surfing the waves of Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks. After he retired he often headed off to the Outer Banks to go camping and surfing with his beloved dog, Tyrone. He found golfing was a relaxing pastime and took pleasure in playing with his brother-in-law, Mike and his “other-Father,” Bill Sexton.
Also following the family tradition, Dale was a lifelong Washington Redskins fan. He loved watching every game and analyzing each play from his player/coach perspective. Each new season brought renewed hope that maybe THIS would be the year that the Redskins would be more successful…
Dale was one of the funniest people we’ve ever known. His creative mind and quick wit made him a consummate entertainer. He always kept us laughing with crazy stories and corny jokes, which often made him the featured comedian at any gathering. Dale was a friend to many people, and the joy and laughter he extended will be deeply missed.
Dale passed away very unexpectedly on Thursday, August 31. He was predeceased by his parents, Dale and DeLena Browder. His family members left to treasure his memory are: his two sisters; DeLena Poe and her husband Ken; Danya Horton and her husband, Mike; his nephew, Zach Horton; his niece, Arielle Mitchell and her husband Marcus; his nephew, Josh Poe and his wife Mandy, grandnephew Asa and grandniece Ellie; and his stepson, Kent Parkhurst, along with many cousins and dear friends,
Dale spent his entire life attending Virginia Beach Community Chapel, serving in several ministries including music and building security. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 8 at 3:30 p.m. at Virginia Beach Community Chapel, 1261 Laskin Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. Visitation with the family will follow at the home of DeLena and Ken Poe.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Holly Morgan at Altmeyer Funeral Home, 1801 Baltic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
