04/14/2026
🪦 Tombstone Tuesday: Remembering “Uncle Dennis” — Robert Dennis Midgett (1926–2016)
This week we honor Robert Dennis Midgett, known lovingly as “Uncle Dennis.”
Born June 14, 1926, Dennis was a Sneads Ferry native whose life was deeply tied to the water. Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, he became a fisherman at an early age, working alongside his brothers on the waters of the New River — a way of life that defined generations in our community. ⚓️
During the Korean Conflict, Dennis was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served honorably before returning home to Sneads Ferry. After his service, he resumed fishing and continued that work until his retirement. 🇺🇸
Family members remember Dennis as a kind and gentle man — someone who was both loving and deeply loved. In his later years, he became part of the Sneads Ferry Free Will Baptist Church, where he found joy in worship and fellowship.
Dennis was the son of Lester and Nora Atwood Midgett, and grandson of Lewis and Jane Hobbs Midgett. He was one of several brothers, including William “Billy,” Louis, and Clifton Midgett. He is also remembered through his sister, Virginia Midgett Richardson, known affectionately as “Aunt Ginnie.”
These memories were shared by family, including his nephew Derrick Brown, who knew him as “Uncle Dennis,” along with additional details lovingly provided by nephew Michael Midgett
Dennis’s story reflects the heart of Sneads Ferry…faith, family, service, and a life shaped by the water.
Thank you to Derrick Brown and Michael Midgett for sharing and helping us preserve this piece of local history.
🌿 Do you have a loved one buried at Yopp’s?
We would be honored to feature them in a future Tombstone Tuesday.
Photos, memories, or even just a name, every story matters.