Geraldine B. Dutton

Geraldine B. Dutton, affectionately known as “Gerri,” of Virginia Beach, Virginia, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, at the age of 77. Born August 15, 1948 in Delmar, Maryland to the late Charles Hollis Hudson Sr. and Olivia Allen Hudson. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grand, beloved sister, aunt, cousin and dear friend. Gerri will be remembered for her grace, eloquence, and unwavering devotion to her family and faith.

A proud graduate of Old Dominion University, Gerri carried her passion for learning into every aspect of her life. She believed deeply in the power of education and was a constant source of encouragement to others. Her eloquence and poise led her to a career as a newscaster for WJDY in Maryland, where her calm, confident voice became familiar to many listeners. Later, she embraced a more intimate form of storytelling through writing and proudly authored her novel, Mallard Lake.

In 1977, Gerri married the love of her life, Gregory Dutton. For 48 years, their marriage stood as a beautiful example of love, commitment, and partnership. Gregory adored and faithfully cared for her, and together they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and shared dreams. Their relationship was admired by all who knew them and remains a lasting testament to enduring love.

Gerri’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to her three daughters, Patrice Morris, Monica McHenry, and Tammy Brown, who cherished her steady wisdom, creativity, and unconditional love. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to eleven great-grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart.

Her home was a place of comfort and beauty—filled with joy, laughter, delicious meals, and especially her beloved blue crabs. Gerri had a natural gift for decorating and taught her daughters the art of turning any house into a home, a legacy that continues to ripple through generations.

She valued meaningful conversation and found joy in uplifting and inspiring others. Her favorite words, “Gotta have faith, hope, and belief,” perfectly captured the way she lived.

Gerri is survived by her devoted husband, Gregory Dutton; her beloved daughters, six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and her sisters: Lovella Jackson, Connie Brown, Janice Sewell, Sheila Stewart and a host of nieces & nephews. Preceded in death by three brothers: Charles Hollis Hudson Jr., Maurice R. Hudson, Wayne M. Hudson and two sisters: Yvonne Fields and Gretchen Mae Washington.

Though her passing leaves a profound void, the legacy of Geraldine B. “Gerri” Dutton lives on in the hearts of all who loved her. While she is no longer with us in body, her voice, wisdom, and enduring legacy of love will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.