Pernell Leroy Denson, Sr.

Pernell Leroy Denson, Sr.

A Legacy of Leadership, Faith and Service

Pernell Leroy Denson, Sr. transitioned from this life on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in Smithfield, Va

Pernell Leroy Denson, Sr. was raised in the close-knit community of Smithfield, Virginia, where he first began to make his mark as a standout athlete. The son of the late Elsie Burrell Denson and Isaiah Leon Denson, Sr was born March 25, 1950. During his formative years, he attended Westside High and Smithfield High schools, where he became a local legend on the gridiron. As a “rock star” quarterback, Pernell was known for his commanding presence on the field, leading his team with a combination of strategic precision and athletic prowess that captured the spirit of his hometown.

His success in high school paved the way for higher education and continued athletic achievement at Elizabeth City State University, In Elizabeth City, North Carolina. As a member of the ECSU football team Pernell brought the same dedication and competitive drive to the collegiate level, balancing the demands of being a student athlete while representing the Vikings with pride.

Upon returning to the Tidewater area, Pernell embarked on a distinguished and specialized career as a rigger at the Newport News Shipyard. For decades , he contributed to the vital work of building and maintaining the nation’s fleet, demonstrating a strong work ethic and technical reliability. His tenure at the shipyard was marked by the same steady leadership that he showed as a young quarterback, eventually culminating in a well-earned retirement after years of dedicated service.

A man of deep conviction, Pernell has been a pillar of the Main Street Baptist Church community. His faith was expressed through active service; he was a dedicated member of the Men’s Ministry, providing mentorship and fellowship to the brethren. Notably, he was the first Men’s Fellowship Ministry’s leadership chair, a member of the Men of Musi, Pernell served actively in the church’s daily operations by driving the daycare van- ensuring the safety and care of the youngest members of the congregation and lending his meticulous nature to the finance department ministry.

Above all of his professional and athletic accolades, Pernell was the father of three: Pernell L. Denson, Jr, of Woodbridge, VA and Nikitta Burks (Corey) of Columbus, Ohio; and Lasana Denson (Regina) of Atlanta, GA; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters, Chrisina Seaborne and Sally Wilson; a step- sister, Barbara Ann Davis; along with a host of nephews, nieces and other kindred. Preceding him in death were his parents and four siblings: Willie (Mingly) Burrell, Frances Mallory, Isaiah Denson, Jr. (Buggy) and Gloria jean Holloway.

His life’s work is reflected in the values of integrity, service and resilience he has passed down to his children. While it was painful to learn on Thursday, August 27, 2026, that he had left this earthly world of struggles after many months of medical challenges- today his legacy is defined not just by the yards gained on a football field or the ships built by the yard, but by the lives he has touched through his unwavering commitment to his family and his faith.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

On Saturday, September 05, 2026 at 11am there will be Service of Remembrance at Main Street Baptist Church. Please keep the Denson family in your prayers.