Ralph V. Bacote, Jr., affectionately known as, "Champ," 67, passed away peacefully Tuesday, February 28, 2017. He attended public schools, graduating from Huntington High School, class of 1968. He graduated from Norfolk State University in 1974. He was a member of Trinity Baptist Church and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He had a thriving career as a Housing Specialist for York County, VA. He retired in 2016 with 29 years of dedicated service.

Champ was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph V., Sr. and Lucille B. Bacote; and sister, C. LaVerne Bacote.

He was a devoted husband of Annie "Jean" A. Bacote for 48 years. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughter, Nona L. Bacote Holmes; son, Timothy P. Bacote (LaToya); granddaughters, I'ana D. Holmes and Ta'Leah N. Bacote; siblings, LeRoy H. Bacote (Judy) and Hermine Bacote Albea; nephew, Victor Albea (Tracie); niece, O'dea Albea; great nephews and great nieces, Victor Aaron Bacote, Miya Albea and Harrison Albea; Loretta Whiteside (sons) and other adoring friends.

A funeral service will be held 12 noon, Tuesday, March 7, 2017 at Trinity Baptist Church, 2900 Chestnut Ave., Newport News. Interment will follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park. Viewing will begin at 1 pm, Monday at the funeral home with a Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. service to be held at 6 pm. Mr. Bacote will lie in state two hours prior to the service at the church on Tuesday. O.H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.