Mrs. Lorita L. Coard, 82, beloved wife of Robert W. “Bob” Coard, passed away at her home in Accomac on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Born Oct. 24, 1942, in Cambridge, Md., she was the daughter of the late Harvey Newcomb and Frances Horseman Newcomb.
Following graduation from Cambridge High School, Lorita began working for Western Publishing Company, where she rose through the ranks and became head of their billing department. During her time at Western, she met the love of her life, Bob Coard, and after a long courtship they married and relocated to Bob’s home town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
Lorita continued her career with A&N Electric Cooperative, where she was a dedicated employee for nearly two decades, retiring in 2005 as the consumer accounts coordinator. Lorita was passionate in her work and was never without a positive attitude. Her coworkers knew they could always count on her to brighten their day, whether it was a smile, a pack of crackers, or a handful of jelly beans.
Lorita found great joy in the simple things in life and was happiest when surrounded by family and friends. She loved mowing her lawn and planting and maintaining her flower beds, and she always made sure her home was a place where all felt welcomed and comfortable. Lorita had a flair for hospitality — she loved to host gatherings filled with laughter, games, and thoughtful gifts. She never missed a birthday, and Christmas at the Coards’ was unrivaled.
More than anything, Lorita treasured the life she shared with Bob. Together they enjoyed summer getaways to Ocean City, Md., country line dancing, rides in her Mazda convertible, and, of course, the famous crab feasts with friends and family.
Lorita was a beautiful person, inside and out, and she will be missed not only by her husband, but by all who had the privilege to know her.
She leaves to honor her memory her husband, Bob; her daughter, Reneé Brooks; her stepdaughter, Ann Maria Parks (Ricky); her grandchildren, Jazmine Robinson and Luke and Owen Parks; her great-grandchildren, Ava and Stori Robinson; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings, Deanna Gladhill and Riley Newcomb.
Lorita’s family would like to extend their deep appreciation to each of her caregivers and to the many friends who have shown their love and concern during this difficult time.
Per her request, family and friends gathered for a private graveside service at the Edgehill Cemetery.
Memory tributes may be shared with the family at
www.williamsfuneralhomes.com
Arrangements were by the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home.
