June 6, 1942–June 8, 2026
Emily Deal Fletcher, 84, passed away on June 8, 2026 at her home in Gloucester, Virginia, surrounded by loved ones. She was born and lived in Newport News until age 16 where she moved to Gloucester and lived the rest of her life. She will be remembered by many as the swimming pool caretaker at Gallopond Campground and an insightful instructor of dog obedience, as owner of Belroi Agility and Obedience Center.
She is survived by three children and six grandchildren: Bill Fletcher and wife Julie of Virginia Beach (Elizabeth and Corey Brill, Jeffrey, and Christopher), Tracy Fletcher of Gloucester, and Kathy Walters and husband Dave of Havelock, N.C. (David and Katie).
She will be remembered for her devotion to family, running the Gallopond Campground swimming pool, and teaching dog training classes. As a mother, she attended soccer games, band concerts, and softball games of her kids. At the campground she managed the swimming pool and was often supervising everyone’s safety. She was a devoted leader of the 4-H dog club in the ’80s which led her to her lifelong love of dog training and teaching others. In the early ’90s, along with her husband, Nelson, Emily opened the Belroi Agility and Obedience Center which hosted many UKC and AKC Agility trials, and UKC Obedience trials. Emily taught dog obedience and agility classes for over 40 years. Whether it was hosting trials, or mentoring new exhibitors, she was a constant presence in the obedience and agility communities even as recently as January she could be seen at an agility trial supporting her many friends.
Andrews Funeral Home, Gloucester, is in charge of arrangements. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 16 at Bellamy United Methodist Church with visitation at 1 p.m. and services at 2 o’clock. Flowers can be delivered to the church on Saturday between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. or in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to AKC Canine Health Foundation, https://www.akcchf.org/how-to-help/other-ways-to-give/. Bellamy United Methodist Church is at 4870 Chestnut Fork Road, Gloucester, Va. 23061.