Mr. Merrill C. “Chuck” Liebold, retired master firefighter of the Virginia Beach Fire Department, for which he worked 23 years, passed away peacefully on Dec. 8, 2024, at his home in Machipongo, surrounded by his beloved family, following complications from liver cancer. Chuck dedicated over two decades of his life to serving his community, joining the Virginia Beach Fire Department on Sept. 16, 1975, and retiring on Aug. 1, 1998. A skilled firefighter and trusted colleague, he was admired by his peers and cherished as a dear friend. In addition to his service as a firefighter, he was an excellent HVAC salesman for over 25 years.
Born on July 31, 1954, Chuck was a native of Virginia Beach who retired to the Eastern Shore of Virginia in 2014. He lived a life defined by love, dedication, and an unshakable sense of duty.
He was a devoted husband to his wife of 44 years, Martha Liebold, and a caring brother to Cheryl Liebold, Kirk Liebold (Kelly), and Lori (Beau) Combs. He was a loving father to his sons, Chris (Dawn) Hughes and Sean (Linda) Liebold and proud Papa to Kyla and Grayson Hughes, as well as Warren, Tazewell, and Woody Liebold. Chuck’s greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
He had a special passion for the simple joys of life, particularly feeding the foxes that frequented his yard, enjoying the sunsets on the Shore, and sharing precious moments with his children and grandchildren. Chuck’s love for his family and friends was boundless and indescribable, and his memory will forever be a source of inspiration to those who knew him. He was a resident of the Shore for over 10 years and a member of Eastville Baptist Church, where he served as trustee.
A memorial service to honor Chuck’s extraordinary life and legacy was held Monday, Dec. 16, at 11 a.m. at Azalea Baptist Church, 3314 E. Little Creek Road, Norfolk, VA 23518. A private interment for the family followed the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Tunnels to Towers Foundation, t2t.org
Chuck was loved beyond measure and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
