Gordon Birkett

Birkett, Gordon McKay, died at his home on Friday, September 8, 2023. He lived a full and adventurous life for 92 years. Being a Navy brat, he and his parents, Jack and Ruby Louise Babb Birkett, lived in many states, Panama and Hawaii. After completion of high school in Pensacola, Fl., he joined the Air Force flying combat missions as a gunner on a B26 Bomber in Korea. After serving four years, he joined the civil work force with many varied and interesting jobs. The last and dearest to his heart was owner operator of Garrett’s Marina on the Rappahannock River.

He loved speed and raced Class B Hydroplanes, go-karts, and had a few starts racing cars in the Grand National circuit (NASCAR). He learned to fly and never tired of short jaunts with friends.

He served his community being a member and president of many civic groups and marine trade associations. He was appointed for 2 terms to the Virginia Marine Resource Commission, serving over 9 years, the Potomac Rivers Fisheries for 8 years, and Essex County Airport Authority for over 30 years.

He is survived by his wife, Valerie, the son of his heart, Brandon Prince (Suzanne) and a special niece, Sylvia Dodge (Kelly) and many cousins in Southampton County.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Faulkner Funeral Homes, Marks-Bristow Chapel, Tappahannock. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Lebanon United Methodist Church Cemetery, 146 Lebanon Church Road, Upright, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lebanon UMC, P.O. Box 157, Millers Tavern, VA, 23115.