Dennis Keith Gryder, 87, of Hudgins, Va., formerly of Hampton, Va., passed away at Riverside Walter Reed Hospital on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023. He was born on Nov. 17, 1935, in Blowing Rock, N.C., to Dwight Edgar and Dottie Alvertie Ward Gryder. He is survived by his daughter, Carla Hall and her husband Clint; two grandchildren, Christopher and Jason; a brother, Reid Gryder, and two nieces, Teresa and Karen. He also leaves behind many who loved him and considered him family.

After serving in the U.S. Navy, Dennis settled in Hampton, where he was both a self-employed master plumber and welder. Always near or on the water, Dennis retired to Hudgins, where he enjoyed his passion, sailing. He also raised oysters and worked closely with VIMS monitoring water quality in the Chesapeake Bay. He was a member of T.O.G.A. and “CITMON.”

He lived a full and colorful life which included motorcycle racing, snow skiing, fast cars and dancing. During his retirement he volunteered at the senior center and delivered for Meals on Wheels.

The family would like to say a special thank you to his neighbor and friends, Marge and Billy Terry; close friends, Carole Isom and John Bland Jr.; Riverside Walter Reed Hospice, especially Megan Mooney, Marie Callis, Sarah Baker, and many others who helped him on his final journey.

Faulkner Funeral Homes, Foster-Faulkner Chapel, Mathews, is assisting the family.