Rebecca Ann Verhaagen

August 1, 1943 – April 1, 2026

Rebecca Ann Peebles Verhaagen, known to everyone who loved her as Ann, passed away on April 1, 2026, at the age of 82. A lifelong resident of the Hampton Roads area, Ann’s life was defined by a remarkable capacity for leadership, a deep, abiding faith, and a gift for hospitality that made everyone she met feel uniquely seen and valued.

Born in Virginia Beach to Frank and Muriel Peebles, Ann grew up alongside her younger sister, Phyllis, in a home that established her foundations at Haygood United Methodist Church. It was during these later formative years that she met her high school sweetheart, Herb Verhaagen. Their marriage spanned over fifty years—a partnership of devotion that became the cornerstone of their family.

Ann’s professional journey was a testament to her drive and charisma. She began her career with Avon Products, and, through talent and tenacity, rose through manager positions to become the East Coast Training Manager for the company. She became a mentor to many, known for her warmth, her delightful laugh, and a sense of humor that could light up any room.

Her professional success was always matched by her spiritual commitment. Whether teaching Sunday School at First Baptist Norfolk, participating in Women’s Bible Study, or serving in short-term overseas missions, Ann lived out her faith through action. In her later years, she found great joy in returning to her roots at Haygood United Methodist, completing a circle of faith that began in her childhood.

To her neighbors on Sturgis and Quincy Streets in Norfolk and Maharis Road in Virginia Beach, Ann was part of the heart of their community. She was a great active listener who possessed the rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her home was a place of frequent hospitality, where friends and family were made to feel special and important.

Ann’s greatest pride was her family. She was predeceased by her husband, Herb, and survived by her sons, David, and daughter-in-law, Ellen, of Nashville, and Brian of the Tidewater area; her seven grandchildren: Daniel, Chris, Maddie, Abbey, Samantha, grandson-in-law Oscar Abud, Joshua, and Mikayla; and her three great-grandchildren, Aquila, Alina, and Santi. She is also survived by her sister, Phyllis, and brother-in-law, Jimmy Porter. She was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Gail.

Ann Verhaagen prioritized her God and her family above all else. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, a reputation for kindness, and the memory of a woman who was, above all, profoundly well-loved.

A memorial services will be held at Tabernacle Church of Norfolk, 700 Granby St., on Saturday, May 16th, at 2 PM.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Youg Life Capernum, which serves teens and young adults with disabilities through “Donate” at vbnorthandcapernaum.younglife.org