Warren Gaines

Warren James Gaines, Jr., 59, of Hopewell, Virginia, passed away on July 11, 2025. Warren was born at the United States Navy Hospital in Portsmouth, Virginia, and raised in Norfolk. Warren was a devoted husband, father, son, and "Pawpaw," who dedicated his life to caring for his family. He grew up attending Mount Gilead Missionary Baptist Church and was actively involved in football and the school band during his youth. A 1985 graduate of Bayside High School, Warren went on to build a strong work ethic, holding two long-standing jobs: 19 years with The Virginian-Pilot and 20 years with Church & Dwight.

Known for his warmth and generosity, Warren never met a stranger. He was the family's self-declared grill master, a music lover of all genres, and a gracious host of many gatherings. More than anything, Warren cherished spending time with his family.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Mr. James and Mrs. Rosena Gaines Matthews, and Mr. John B. and Mrs. Elizabeth Moye Purvis; his uncle, Warren McDaniels; his aunt, Lois McClain; his cousin, Wendell Roderick Smith, Jr.; and his best friend, Anthony Walker.

Warren is survived by his parents, Warren James Gaines Sr. (Seaford, DE) and Zula Mae Gaines (Norfolk, VA); his loving wife of 16 years, Michele Sculthorpe Gaines (Hopewell, VA); his son, Warren James Gaines III (Flower Mound, TX); his daughter, Kayla Michele Sculthorpe (Hopewell, VA); and his bonus son, Jarred Roach (Flower Mound, TX). He also leaves behind a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, and many cherished bonus children and grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, Chester Chapel, officiated by Pastor Andrew Delgado. The public viewing will take place from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, immediately followed by the service at 3:00 PM. A reception with food will follow in the banquet room at the funeral home, where the family will receive friends and loved ones.