ISLE OF WIGHT—Odell Ray Vannatter, 75, died June 19, 2008, at Sentara Obici Hospital after a brief illness.

A native of Lincoln County, W.Va., he had been a resident of Isle of Wight for the past 11 years. He had also lived in Newport News and Gloucester.

Mr. Vannatter proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He served two consecutive terms in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star.

After military life, he retired from Fort Eustis, civil service, as a maintenance supervisor after 17 years of service. He was an avid hunter.

A beloved husband, father, and ‘Papa,’ he will be sorely missed by his loving wife of 54 years, Anna; two daughters, Rhonda Payne and husband, Michael of Smithfield and Teresa Hizer and husband Rodney of Williamsburg; three grandsons, Jeremy Wilson, Aaron and Chris Vannatter; and beloved granddaughter, Candace Hizer.

He was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth D. Vannatter.

A life celebration service was conducted Sunday in Colonial Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jarvis Hearn officiating. Burial was private.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, Isle of Wight Chapter, 4217 Park Place Court, Glen Allen, VA 23060.

Arrangements were in the care of Colonial Funeral Home, Smithfield.