It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Herbert Campbell Rockefeller of Virginia Beach and Mathews, Virginia, who departed this life on May 9, 2025 at the age of 82. Herbert was born in Norfolk, Virginia, the son of John D. Campbell Rockefeller and Lena Evelyn Echols Rockefeller. He attended Granby High School and further attended Louisburg College.
Herbert began working for his father’s business, Miller’s Dairy, in 1958, where he became President in 1973. He then went on to found Miller’s Spring Water in 1982 and was President until it was sold in 2000. He continued to channel his entrepreneurial spirit with his business associate and family friend, Nita San Juan, and founded Chesapeake Packing, and Chesapeake Properties where he focused on commercial real estate.
Herbert was also a proud member of the Kiwanis Club for over 35 years, reflecting his deep commitment to service, and community involvement. He will be remembered for his kindness, integrity, and his calm and steady presence he brought to every room. His legacy lives on in those he knew and loved him, and in the values he passed down through generations.
He is survived by his beloved wife Helen Ward Rockefeller of 37 years, and his children, Sebring Alfred Rockefeller and partner Whitney Flora, and Kristen Rockefeller Ochs and husband Gary. He also has two stepchildren, Susan Lee Ward Cherry and husband Patrick, and Edward Randolph Ward and wife Margaret. Herbert is also survived by seven grandchildren and six stepgrandchildren with great-grandchildren as well. He is also survived by his sister, Christina Jane Battin and husband Reed, and his niece and nephew.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Grace Providence Church in Mobjack, Virginia, c/o Heidi Hurst, 306 Milton Jones Lane, Cardinal, Va. 23025 or a charity of your choice.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A graveside service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 1 p.m. and memorial service will be held at Grace Providence Church, 8 Grace Street, Foster, Va. 23056, on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 1 p.m. Condolences to the family may be offered at www.hollomon-brown.com.