L. Warren Haley Jr., 84, of Gloucester, Va., passed away peacefully at home on May 17, 2024. He was born in Front Royal, Va., on April 5, 1940, then grew up in Waynesboro and Hampton. He was known for the love of his family, a kind-hearted friend, sense of humor, a devoted Christian, and accomplished musician.
He was predeceased by his parents, Landon and Clarita Haley, and sister, Margaret Ward. He is survived by the love of his life, Helen, his wife of 62 years, and their three children, Karen Hudgins (Herman), Susan Haley, and Scott Haley (Sarah). Warren had six grandchildren, Daniel West, Haley Boatner (Matt), Katherine Crabill (Zach), Jack Corson, Jessica Haley, and Sam Haley. He had three great-grandchildren, Baker Crabill, Millie Crabill, and Jack Boatner. He is also survived by his brother, Phil Haley (Toni), as well as a niece, nephews and many cousins.
He graduated from Hampton High School in 1958 and then graduated from The College of William and Mary with a B.A. in Economics in 1962. After serving in the U.S. Army as a commissioned officer, he began his career as a computer information systems manager in 1964. Early in his career, he worked as an analyst manager for Control Data Corporation (CDC), manufacturer of the world’s most powerful supercomputers. While at CDC, he won many awards and felt privileged to be a pioneer in advanced technology, working with what is now known as touchscreen technology. He left CDC to become Vice President of a medium-sized information services corporation in Norfolk, Va., and finished his career as an information systems training and education manager with Newport News Shipbuilding. He retired in 2005.
Warren was a musician for almost his entire life. He started playing the trombone when he was 10 years old, pausing only while he was in the military. He was a part-time professional musician for more than 40 years, playing jazz in numerous combos and big bands, as well as playing classical music in several orchestras. He retired from playing music in his 80s and satisfied his creative passion by turning to impressionistic painting. He also enjoyed the game of golf and loved playing with family and friends. Traveling was also a passion and he was blessed to have traveled all over the world.
Warren had a dedicated faith and served his church in various capacities. He served on the Vestry at Abingdon Episcopal Church for three terms. He also graduated from the Education for Ministry and participated in Cursillo. He was an active member of a worldwide spiritually based program for over 40 years. The celebration of life service will be held at Abingdon Episcopal Church on June 1, 2024, at 11 a.m., with a reception afterward in the church parish hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are suggested to go to any of these three organizations: Abingdon Episcopal Church Endowment Fund, the Arts at Abingdon (www.abingdonchurch.org), or the Arts on Main in Gloucester, Va. (www.gloucesterartsonmain.org).