J.A. was a man of God who demonstrated his love and faith through acts of service. He was one of few remaining area WW2 veterans and, in later years, loved to wear his WW2 hat everywhere he went. Born and raised in Louisa County, J.A. enjoyed being from the country and the many stories he shared about growing up during the great depression were highlights of family visits and holiday get-togethers.
After graduation from Louisa High School, J.A. was drafted into the US Navy, serving on the Destroyer Escort USS Frament (APD-77) in the Atlantic theater for five crossings and, after conversion to an APD troop carrier, was part of the Pacific Task Force assembled at Okinawa in preparation for a final invasion of Japan.
J.A.'s post-war career began at the Apprentice School Naval Air Station Norfolk, where he began a long career as an Aircraft Mechanic, Team Leader, and Administrator. In 1948 he resumed his military career by joining the Marine Corp Reserves and was eventually called up for assignment to Cherry Point NC, where he applied his considerable skills and knowledge to a new generation of aircraft.
After the Korean Conflict, J.A. became a federal employee, with increased training and supervisory responsibilities for aircraft maintenance and modification. After his retirement he continued to consult on related projects for ten years.
J.A. was a family man who moved to South Norfolk after World War II. During this time, he demonstrated his great love of baseball, playing 3rd base for Colonial Chevrolet in the Norfolk City League, who became City Champions in 1950 and 1951. His biggest hit during this time was meeting his future wife, Jane Jackson. As the story goes "Jane didn't have a chance" as it was love at first sight. They were blessed with 2 children, Clay and Kathy, and were devoted to each other as partners and best friends for 70 years.
J.A. Cosner was a lifelong Methodist and he and Jane faithful members of Chesapeake Avenue Methodist Church for over 60 years. He served as a Deacon, Team Leader of the Food Pantry, and was a groundbreaking contributor to Virginia Wesleyan College. He and Jane later joined Monumental United Methodist Church in Portsmouth where they were warmly welcomed.
Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Jane J. Cosner; son, Clay Cosner and daughter, Kathy Symmes (Ray); grandchildren, Annie Symmes Whitney (Brian) and Ally Symmes; and a great granddaughter, Lennon Whitney. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jonas A. Cosner, Sr. and Mary F. Cosner, as well as brothers, Rodney K. Cosner and Hugh C. Cosner. He has one surviving sister, Mary K. Spady.
Due to Covid concerns, there were be a graveside-only service held at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434 on Tuesday, March 2 at 11 am. If so moved, in lieu of flowers please make a donation to Monumental United Methodist Church or any Christian Charity. Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Chesapeake will be caring for arrangements.
Published in The Virginian-Pilot on Feb. 28, 2021.
J.A. was a man of God who demonstrated his love and faith through acts of service. He was one of few remaining area WW2 veterans and, in later years, loved to wear his WW2 hat everywhere he went. Born and raised in Louisa County, J.A. enjoyed being from the country and the many stories he shared about growing up during the great depression were highlights of family visits and holiday get-togethers.
After graduation from Louisa High School, J.A. was drafted into the US Navy, serving on the Destroyer Escort USS Frament (APD-77) in the Atlantic theater for five crossings and, after conversion to an APD troop carrier, was part of the Pacific Task Force assembled at Okinawa in preparation for a final invasion of Japan.
J.A.'s post-war career began at the Apprentice School Naval Air Station Norfolk, where he began a long career as an Aircraft Mechanic, Team Leader, and Administrator. In 1948 he resumed his military career by joining the Marine Corp Reserves and was eventually called up for assignment to Cherry Point NC, where he applied his considerable skills and knowledge to a new generation of aircraft.
After the Korean Conflict, J.A. became a federal employee, with increased training and supervisory responsibilities for aircraft maintenance and modification. After his retirement he continued to consult on related projects for ten years.
J.A. was a family man who moved to South Norfolk after World War II. During this time, he demonstrated his great love of baseball, playing 3rd base for Colonial Chevrolet in the Norfolk City League, who became City Champions in 1950 and 1951. His biggest hit during this time was meeting his future wife, Jane Jackson. As the story goes "Jane didn't have a chance" as it was love at first sight. They were blessed with 2 children, Clay and Kathy, and were devoted to each other as partners and best friends for 70 years.
J.A. Cosner was a lifelong Methodist and he and Jane faithful members of Chesapeake Avenue Methodist Church for over 60 years. He served as a Deacon, Team Leader of the Food Pantry, and was a groundbreaking contributor to Virginia Wesleyan College. He and Jane later joined Monumental United Methodist Church in Portsmouth where they were warmly welcomed.
Survivors include his wife of 70 years, Jane J. Cosner; son, Clay Cosner and daughter, Kathy Symmes (Ray); grandchildren, Annie Symmes Whitney (Brian) and Ally Symmes; and a great granddaughter, Lennon Whitney. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jonas A. Cosner, Sr. and Mary F. Cosner, as well as brothers, Rodney K. Cosner and Hugh C. Cosner. He has one surviving sister, Mary K. Spady.
Due to Covid concerns, there were be a graveside-only service held at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, 5310 Milners Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434 on Tuesday, March 2 at 11 am. If so moved, in lieu of flowers please make a donation to Monumental United Methodist Church or any Christian Charity. Graham Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Chesapeake will be caring for arrangements.
Published in The Virginian-Pilot on Feb. 28, 2021.
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