Cleophas Sandy Hockaday, 88, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, peacefully entered eternal rest on October 2, 2025. Born on November 5, 1936, in Berkley, Virginia. Sandy was the son of Eleanor M. and James E. Hockaday. Sandy is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Gwendolyn, and their 5 children and families; daughter, Lisa, (Kevin), son, Sandy Jr., (Leilani), son, Russell, son, David, and daughter, Tina, bonus daughters Silvia and Danielle, bonus sons Amilcar and Sean, 14 grandchildren, 16 greatgrandchildren, a sister, Eleanor Davenport, Sister-in-Law, Sandra Wooden, Brother-in-Law, Brehon Fulford (Edith), and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Leon, Albert, Wendell, Russell, and Rudolph. Named after his uncle, his father's brother from Washington, D.C., affectionately known as Uncle Cle — he carried that name with both pride and purpose throughout his life. Growing up, Sandy — also known as 'Butch' — spent his formative years on Frederick Street before moving to Whitehead Street and eventually Rockingham Street. He attended Abraham Lincoln Elementary and Booker T. Washington High School, where he became known for his charm, particularly among the girls, and for his close friendships with Jake, Mervin, Gramps, Tiddy, Plug, Hoggy, Donnell, Snake, Sapdick, Buff, and many others. Together, these friends shared countless memories and mischief during their youth.  Sandy was a gifted athlete who played shortstop for the Berkley Bulldogs baseball community team under Coach Joe Alston. His talents also earned him a letter jacket for his performance in high school sports. In addition to baseball, Sandy wrestled in high school — famously defeating a rival who had his sights set on Sandy's future wife. Their union recently marked an extraordinary 66 years filled with devotion, laughter, dedication, and unwavering commitment, each year a reflection of Forever Loving You (FLY), a promise that endured through every season of life. As an avid bowler and a man of many passions, Sandy proudly competed on several Air Force squadron teams throughout his service. In pursuit of the elusive 300 game, he achieved an impressive 299 and rolled several 700+ series. He also enjoyed golf, yard work, and fixing just about anything, which earned him the nickname "Mr. Fix-It." When it came to crabs and ribs, Sandy was renowned for his cooking, especially with Gwen looking over his shoulder. Faithful in church attendance and devoted to his family, Sandy was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His love was unwavering, his laughter infectious, and his presence unforgettable. Cleophas Sandy Hockaday lived a life full of purpose, joy, and service. Though he has departed this world, may the legacy he leaves behind continue to inspire all who knew him. We will carry forward his spirit with love, humility, service, strength, and compassion.

After graduating with the class of 1955, Sandy responded to the call of duty by joining the United States Air Force. His distinguished military career spanned twenty-two years and was marked by excellence, leadership, and a global impact. As an electronic technician, instructor, and squadron leader, he guided teams and mentored peers with precision and pride. His service took him — and often his family — across the world, including Germany, Japan, Iran, Africa, Mississippi, Oklahoma, and Georgia. In August 1976, Sandy retired at the rank of Master Sergeant, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, discipline, and quiet strength. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Sandy pursued higher education, earning an associate degree in Business Management from the University of Mississippi, and an associate degree in Logistic from Jones College and Norfolk State University. He then dedicated another twenty-one years to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, retiring in 1998 as a Logistics Management Specialist.

A service of remembrance will be held 1:00 pm on Monday, October 13, 2025 at Woodlawn Memorial Gardens mausoleum,  6309 E Virginia Beach Blvd, Norfolk. Viewing will be held from 3pm until 5pm on Sunday,  October 12, 2025 at Pretlow and Sons Funeral Home, 500 Liberty Street, Chesapeake.

You can join the service livestream at 1:00 pm on Monday, October 13, 2025, at: https://www.facebook.com/PretlowandSons

In lieu of flowers, donations maybe made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital: https://shorturl.fm/AB3z3