Michael Porter

Michael W. Porter, 68, of Virginia Beach died October 4.  Born in Benson, NC, he was the son of the late Dalton W. Porter and Esther Core Porter. His sister, Jackie P. Moore; nephew, Randy Moore; and great nephew, Staff Sergeant William Clint Moore, all of Benson, NC preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Elizabeth (Becky) Porter; cats, Tiger and Little Girl; sister, Barbara "Bobbie" (William "Billy") Parrish of Benson, NC; brother, John Andrew (Carol) Porter of Charlotte, NC; nieces and nephews, Cindy Johnson, Carolyn Hayes (Dennis), Lillian Leigh Curtis (Keith), Jean Barefoot (Keith), Ronnie Moore, and Ricky Moore (Winifred), all of Benson, NC, and Emma Meekins (Kenny) of Manteo, NC; and numerous grandnieces and nephews.        Michael was a graduate of Benson High School, East Carolina University, and the University of Virginia.  He began his career in education at Andrew Lewis High School in Salem, VA as an English and Journalism teacher.  In 1971, he became the Publications Supervisor for Hampton City Schools.  In 1973, Michael was hired as the Virginia High School League’s Programs Supervisor for Publications and Information Services.  From 1985 to 2010, he served as assistant principal at Cox High School, Green Run High School, and Kellam High School in Virginia Beach.   In 1981, The Columbia Scholastic Press Association awarded him a Gold Key, a national recognition for his support of excellence in teaching journalism and in advising the student press.         A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 8, at 11:00 a.m. at the Benson City Cemetery. Rev. Paul Burgess will officiate.       A visitation will be held at Rose & Graham Funeral Home from 10: 00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. prior to the graveside service.       In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the National Alzheimer’s Association, P. O. Box 96011, Washington, DC  20090.