Vivian R. English

Vivian Ree Loosie English was born on April 8, 1938, to Thelma and Jesse Bland in Kingston (Lenoir County), North Carolina. She was the fourth child of thirteen. She received her heavenly wings surrounded by family on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 87. Vivian was affectionately known by family as “Bumpsy,” a nickname earned by her fierce loyalty and willingness to stand up for her siblings. She was a true fighter, unwavering in spirit and action all the way to the end. Vivian met and married Marshall Richardson, Jr. in 1956 and from this union, five children were born. She devoted her life to raising them with love, strength, and dedication. After Marshall’s passing, Vivian found companionship again and she remarried Henry English in 2008. Vivian dedicated over 30 years as an Assembly Operator with Westinghouse, Incorporated (now Northrop Grumman), Air Force Avionics Division finally retiring in 2006. She played a vital role in assembling components and subassemblies for critical space launch systems. Her achievements supported major industrial advancements and aerospace technology during a transformative era. Vivian was a long-standing and cherished member of Transformation Church of Jesus Christ, where she found great joy and community with her church family. She formed lasting relationships with many, including dear friends Otheia Brown, Shirley Dean, Ruth Ambush, and countless others who held a special place in her heart. Vivian faithfully served in several ministries, including the Usher Board, Finance ministry, Women’s ministry and Shepard Care ministry. She enjoyed organizing and filling the bus for the Church Crab feast with family and friends. Vivian was also a devoted supporter of her son and “favorite” daughter’s ministry at Fresh Water Ministries Outreach & Fellowship Church. One of her favorite songs was Jesus is Real to Me – a reflection of her steadfast belief. Vivian loved spending time playing card games, bingo, word puzzles and watching her favorite game shows – especially “Press Your Luck” and movies on the “Lifetime” channel. Vivian was preceded in death by her parents, Thelma and Jesse Bland, her husbands, Marshall Richardson, Jr. and Henry C. English; her brothers, Tommy, Ellis and Pete; her sister, Ometha; and her grandson, Jeffrey. Vivian leaves to cherish her memory: her five children, Brenda, Larry, Michelle, Wanda and Carone; a daughter in love, Florence; two cherished niece-daughters, Tresee and Anita; eleven grandchildren, Trevira, Dwayne (LaKashia), Demetrius (Jataya), Devon, Nathan, April and Jessica. nine great-grandchildren, Kyla, Da’Von, Iyonei, Lamonte, Karlito, Demetrius, Damari, King, and Delmon; brothers, Johnny, James and Freddie; sisters, Helen, Deborah, Doris and Evelyn; and a host of family and friends.

Tributes

Vivian R. English

April 8, 1938 - July 13, 2025