Denise Fields Obituary in Richmond at Scotts Funeral Home

Obituary For Denise Fields

We mourn the loss of Ms. Denise I. Fields, of Williamsburg, who departed this life May 18, 2022. She was born in Norfolk, Virginia to the late Ernestine H. Fields and James W. Fields. She received her BS degree from Norfolk State University. She was best described as a serial entrepreneur by virtue of her ability to turn creative ideas into successful business strategies. She was active in the small business communities of Greenville, SC, Richmond, VA and Norfolk, VA. She participated in projects that involved commercial design-build construction and facility management services; nonprofit administration and logistics projects for major corporations, educational institutions and government agencies. However, her greatest gift was to be a servant leader and champion for small businesses, women and minority-owned firms. When Denise found that a major corporation, educational institution or government agency was not doing what she considered to be the bare minimum according to her high standards, she would write a well-worded letter to give the leader of that organization a new perspective. Upon reading the letter, the leader would contact Denise to ask what should be done, and just like that, movers and shakers were changing history because of the catalyst for change that Denise had begun. Richmond became a better, more equitable business environment due to work behind the scenes of Ms. Denise I. Fields. Denise was fun-loving, energetic, dynamic and memorable to anyone who has ever encountered her. Even the people who competed with her in business would often remark about her tenacity and business acumen, but mostly about her fairness in any transaction in which she was a participant. Above all, Denise was a woman of integrity and goodwill. Her philosophy was always to make deposits in the "emotional bank accounts" of the friends, associates and even the competitors she encountered because you never know when you might need to make a withdrawal. As a result, Denise has developed a global network of friends and associates who are willing to be resources for helping other people solve problems and create solutions. To that end, Denise has mentored, helped and counseled (those who were wise enough to listen) many young people. She also served with boundless energy the needs and preferences of her senior friends and associates. In many ways, she used them as targets for her excess capacity once her one true love (Mrs. Ernestine Fields) passed away in 2009. We speak of Denise in the past tense with great difficulty and surrealism. She was always such a current part of our lives and her willingness to help anyone at a moment's notice was refreshing and rare in today's world. Denise will remain a positive moving spirit in our lives and we will miss her kindness, humor and genuine concern for all of us. Surviving are her brother, Gregory L. Mason (Crystal) of Norfolk, VA; nephews, Omonte Ward, KaShawn Mason and Rashid Mason; niece, Shanwta Wright; cousins, Delores Stevenson, Vivian Jones, Oliver Smith (Patricia), Cary Smith (Rosa), John Douglas Smith (Eve), Eric Whitehead and Tyris Casey and many other loving relatives, friends and associates. A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 6:30 p.m. at the Chrysler Museum of Art Kaufman Theater, 1 Memorial Place, Norfolk, VA 23510, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Denise I. Fields Endowed Scholarship Fund in the School of Business, Norfolk State University Foundation. Arrangements by Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., Richmond, VA 23222. Online guestbook at scottsfuneralhome.com.

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Denise your presents in this world will be missed, your generosity, business knowledge, sense of humor and friendship. Rest in peace my friend! Sharon

This cut deeply my friend but you have the final victory now and heaven has gained an angel. Youve gained your crown!You were a "real one" a true Sisterfriend, a woman of conviction substance and courage. A trailblazer. We came up through the trenches together over 30 years ago. So many good memories we made over the years that will sustain me going forward. You left footprints behind and we will always remember your bright light and big smile and love for humankind. Rest in peace and power💖🙏🦋
Sharmaine L Hobbs

From the day I met you at BTW as crosstown rivals, I knew we would become good friends as we began to pursue our futures in the World. You made your mark and never forgot your friends. A year ago your smile was like the first day we met and I will never forget you. Heaven has a place for you with eternal peace for a life of of goodness so richly deserved. Sincerely, Karlton Hilton

Denise, it was with a heavy heart that I lifted a prayer on your passing. Your spirit, your presence and your constant inspiration were so special to me. Although we we only saw each other sporadically throughout many decades I always remembered, and will continue to remember, your warm heart and beautiful smile. You will be missed my friend. Rest in Heaven🙏🏾 Renée Ryder Mellon

This has really caught me off guard so unexpected. Denise had such a kind spirit and a given heart. I will miss cutting the grass at her properties and miss her beautiful smile. To the fields family you have my deepest condolences. William Hawkins

John 11:25-26 - Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Rest easy my friend!
Rev. Winter Bass- Freeman

I'm sadden by your passing. You were larger than life and always ready for anything and everything. RIP

My prayers and condolences to your family

Denise, you were such an inspiration in my personal and business life. You will be truly missed. You have left a legacy to your business associates, friends and family. May God bless your family during this time of bereavement. Just know your spirit will always be remembered. Your beautiful light will always shine.
Wesley Stith

Sincere Condolences to the family of a truely good person. Rest in Peace 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾...Walter

I did not know Denise but felt compelled to offer condolences....from her picture, she was a beautiful soul. God bless her and her family

You will be greatly missed Denise. We were on the majorettes for Jacox Jr. High School back in the early 70s. Can't believe you're gone. My condolences to your family. Dr. Gale McConico Peterson

I cannot believe you're gone. You will be greatly missed. We were majorettes at Jacox Junior High School back in the early 70s. My condolences to you and your family...Dr. Gale McConico Peterson

I give my prayers and heartfelt condolences to the Fields Family! My feelings had a "ripple effect" and my heart was saddened. Now, I thank you for being a really good friend with really good memories and Rest in Eternal Peace with Our Creator Denise.

I offer my deepest sympathy on the passing of Denise. May God surround her loved ones with peace,comfort & strength. Rest in heaven dear lady. Respectfully, Shelia Spurlock-Shaw

We shared the same 1975 first graduating class of the new BTW High School. We both were a part of the Awesome BTW Band, you a Majorett and me on the Drill Team. You'll forever be a part of my memories as I reminisce of those good ole day. My sincere condolences to your family and friends. Rest in Peace Denise 🙏🏽

I Will miss you my friend! May you find the joy peace and happiness in heaven that earth did not offer💖

Rest in peace my dear friend, we love you and you will always be in our hearts. Sharon Brinkley

My heart is overwhelmed, I'm happy to have been a part of your life since elementary school. I love you and thanks for all you've done in our friendship and community. Until we meet again my angel rest well!🙏🏾❤️