Wilbur Dewitt Addison

Wilbur DeWitt Addison departed this life peacefully on May 22, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born on November 22, 1939, in Norfolk, Virginia, Wilbur was the son of the late Isaiah A. Addison and Gladys H. Addison. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Isaiah Addison, Jr. and Alvin Addison; and his sister, Sarah Walker.

Wilbur graduated from Crestwood High School in 1957. He continued his academic journey at Virginia State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1962. During his time at Virginia State, he pledged the Nu Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., beginning a lifelong commitment to scholarship, service, perseverance, and uplift.

Following graduation, Wilbur answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Army. Over a distinguished military career spanning more than twenty years, he served in the Medical Service Corps, including service as a Vietnam Veteran. Through dedication, leadership, and professionalism, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before retiring honorably from military service.

After retirement from the Army, Wilbur continued his commitment to healthcare and community service as Chief of Laboratory Services at Chesapeake General Hospital. He became a respected leader throughout the Chesapeake community, serving on the Chesapeake Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Directors of the Greenbrier Country Club.

Wilbur remained active in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. throughout his life. He served as Basileus of the Lambda Omega Chapter from 1986 to 1988 and worked tirelessly in support of the fraternity's mission and the communities it served.

A man of faith, Wilbur was a devoted member of Metropolitan A.M.E. Zion Church in Norfolk, Virginia. He lived a life guided by service, integrity, compassion, and commitment to family. Whether through his military service, professional career, civic leadership, church involvement, or fraternity work, he left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Wilbur shared 63 loving years of marriage with his devoted wife, Aurella O. Addison. Together they built a strong foundation of faith, love, and family that continues through generations.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife, Aurella O. Addison; his daughter, Karen A. Wright; his son, Brian T. Addison; and his cherished granddaughters, Hillary M. Wright-Phillips, Amber A. Addison, Jillian N. Wright, and Taylore H. Addison. He is also survived by 13 nephews, 10 nieces, numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, fraternity brothers, church family, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his presence.

Wilbur 's legacy of service, leadership, faith, and love will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. Though he has departed from this earthly life, his example and influence will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

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