Earnest Colaw

Earnest “Skitch” Gayle Colaw, 65, died peacefully early October 8, 2016 at Walter Reed Hospital, Gloucester, VA, surrounded by friends. Skitch was born on December 14, 1950 in Norfolk, VA. He lived in Richmond until the 70’s, then moved to Deltaville with his parents and spent the last 6 years in Riverside Convalescent Center, Saluda, VA. Preceded in death by his parents Homer and Myrtle Colaw; survived by his sister Linda, family members, close friends and “bestest” friend Jimmy Walden. His motto was “Never Give Up”. He was a lifelong learner, computer savvy man who loved his tools and could fix anything, which gave him great satisfaction. Many knew him from his grass cutting days and his small business called “Skitch’s Lawn Service”. He could be seen around Middlesex County riding his three wheel bike, lawn mower, or motorized wheel chair. Skitch enjoyed many fishing trips with buddies Jack Hurd, David Taylor, and friends. They say “It takes a village to raise a child.” But in Skitch’s case; He Raised Us! He was a member of Boy Scouts of America, C. B. Club, Middlesex Lions Club, and served as a volunteer fireman for LMVFD for 26 years before becoming an honorary member in 1999. He was a member of Lower United Methodist Church in Hartfield, VA. His family and friends would like to thank the staff of Riverside Convalescent Center in Saluda and the care team from Walter Reed Hospital Intensive Care Unit. Edward P. Harrow, Sr. will lead a Celebration of Life service at 4 PM on Friday, October 21, at the Lower Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department, 16881 General Puller Hwy., Deltaville, VA 23043 with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Skitch’s honor to LMVFD, PO Box 440, Deltaville, VA, 23043. Arrangements made by Bristow-Faulkner Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Saluda.