Willie Charles Sibert

Willie Charles Sibert passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, at the age of 95, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Born on September 21, 1930, in Richmond, Virginia, he was preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Lona Sibert; his siblings, Carrie Martin, Margaret Sibert, and Alex Sibert, Jr.; his daughters, Iona Sibert-Allen and Danette Sibert-Valentine; his son, James Edward Sibert; and his nephew, Kenneth Newsome. He graduated from Maggie L. Walker High School in Richmond, Virginia, and soon after enlisted in the United States Navy in 1947. During nine years of honorable service in the United States Navy, he proudly served in the Korean War. He was stationed aboard the Battleship USS New Jersey from 1951 to 1953, supporting coastal operations, and from 1953 to 1956, he served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (CVA-11). Over his career, he also served on the navy ship USS Hugh Purvis (DD-709) and the navy carrier USS Mission Bay (CVE-59). Beyond his official duties, he enjoyed entertaining fellow sailors through boxing matches and football games, bringing camaraderie and joy to those around him. After his military service, he began a long and dedicated career at A.H. Robins in Richmond, Virginia, where he worked for over 20 years as a Liquid Technician, contributing to the production of medications such as Robitussin and Dimetapp. A devoted member of Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church, he faithfully served his church family for many years. He was an active member of the Senior Ministry and was well known for driving the church van, ensuring members had transportation to and from Sunday services and other church events whenever needed. In the community, Dan—affectionately known as “Dan the Man” and “The Barbershop Man”—was a familiar and beloved presence in the Jackson Ward and Central Gardens communities, taking pride in cutting hair and building lasting relationships with neighbors and friends. In his spare time, Dan also valued staying fit, maintaining a daily routine of walking 30 minutes on his treadmill followed by time on the elliptical, a habit he kept for decades. He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted daughters, Darlene Jordan and Bernadette E. Bennett; his beloved grandchildren, Travis Wall, Ashley N. Bennett, John C. Valentine Jr., Gregory C. Bennett, Jr., Brianna Y. Valentine, and Kahlil White; two great-grandchildren, Anthony and James Medeiros; two nephews, Charles Tolbert and William Andre Hatchett (Leann Hatchett) of Colorado Springs, Colorado; one niece, Margaret Sibert, one devoted friend, Ann Taylor, caregiver Carletha Robinson, along with a host of extended family and friends. Dan’s life was a testament to service, love, and dedication—to his family, community, and country. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Grandfather, Forever With Us We know you can no longer stay with us, you fought long and hard to be with us. We know you now watch over us and protect us. Although we cannot hear your voice or see your smiling face, we know deep down in our hearts that you have not left us. Instead, every day you surround us with the singing of the birds, the rising of the sun, and the falling of night. We hear you in the memories you gave us, we feel you in the love you left behind. So many broken hearts are left behind, but in our deepest despair, our greatest comfort lies in knowing that you are now at peace with the angels and God. So as time passes, our tears will dry, our hearts will mend, but our love for you will never end. And in every moment, Grandfather, you are still with us. Love, your grandchildren

Tributes

Willie Charles Sibert

September 21, 1930 - April 2, 2026