Va. Beach - Dedra Denise Dozier Anderson, affectionately known as “DeeDee,” was born on March 14, 1963, to the late George and Ruth Dozier in Princess Anne County. A lifelong resident of Virginia Beach, she entered eternal rest on May 10, 2026.

DeeDee was educated in the Virginia Beach Public School System and proudly graduated from Green Run High School in 1982. During her time there, she was a member of the track team—throwing discus and shot put, the manager of the field hockey team, and an active participant in JROTC. She later continued her studies at Norfolk State University.

From a young age, DeeDee was fascinated with driving. Once she earned her driver’s license, her love for driving only grew, ultimately shaping her career as a dedicated Transportation Specialist.

That passion blossomed into a lifelong career. She drove school buses for Virginia Beach Public Schools for many years before transitioning to Chesapeake Public Schools, where she served faithfully for 16 years. She also drove part‑time for Venture Tours and Hampton Roads Transit. DeeDee knew every shortcut, every back road, and every way around traffic—skills she shared with pride. Her vibrant personality, quick wit, and warm smile made her unforgettable. If you saw DeeDee, you were guaranteed a joke, a laugh, and a moment of joy. She also loved crocheting and often made blankets to adorn her home.

Raised in the New Light community, DeeDee was rooted in faith from childhood. She attended the neighborhood church, where she sang in both the gospel and mass choirs and served on the youth usher board. She also played back catcher on the church softball team—where, true to form, she talked plenty of friendly trash behind the plate.

After marriage, DeeDee welcomed her pride and joy, her “little man,” Damon Palmer Anderson III (Trey). The bond between them was unbreakable. She was a devoted mother who guided him through every milestone, encouraged him in every decision, and supported him in every dream. She attended his karate matches faithfully and rallied the family to cheer him on. She pushed him to pursue his education, celebrating his accomplishments as he completed mechanic school and began his career with Hendrick Automotive.

In her later years, Dedra joined First Baptist Church South Hill under the leadership of Rev. Michael Toliver, whom she dearly loved. She served faithfully on the Usher Board and in the Food Pantry, where she cherished working alongside her senior buddies. Dedra had a servant’s heart—ushering at services, supporting families at funerals, and most recently volunteering at Fitchett‑Mann Funeral Services. Serving others was her ministry, and she carried it out with grace, humor, and compassion.

Dedra was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings: Wanda Pinckney, Catherine Watson, Viola Knox, Shirley Nwagbaroach, Priscilla Harris, and Percy Dozier.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved son, Damon Palmer Anderson III; her closely raised nephew, Demond Griffin; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who will forever hold her in their hearts.

A funeral service will be held 11:00am Wednesday; May 27, 2026 at First Baptist Church South Hill; Chesapeake, VA.  Viewing will be 4-6pm Tuesday at Fitchett-Mann Funeral Services; 1146 Rodgers St.; Chesapeake, VA  23324.  Her earthly remains will be buried in Roosevelt Memorial Park.