Judge Herbert Gill Jr.

Judge Herbert Cogbill Gill, Jr., 79, of Chesterfield County, Virginia, passed away on Friday, January 6, 2023. In the middle of WWII on August 8, 1943, while his Father was stationed in the Army overseas, Judge Gill was born to Olive Stewart Gill and Herbert C. Gill, Sr., who have both since passed from this Earth. Judge Gill was raised in the villages of Ettrick and Matoaca and was mentored by the best parents in the best of times. He was directly raised by the most dedicated, hardworking, and loving parents, but indirectly raised by the other six Gill siblings and their spouses, as well as nine Stewart families. His most cherished memories were Thanksgiving at the rented American Legion Hall in Ettrick, and Christmas at the home of Aunt Rachel Gill Dance. Specifically, each of the Gill brothers played a part in structuring his education and career. Judge Gill was fortunate in receiving the best education by the most dedicated career teacher in Ettrick/Matoaca Elementary Schools, Petersburg City Public Schools, Hampden-Sydney College, and TC Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond. Between college and law school, he served two years with the U.S. Department of Defense. Upon graduation from law school, he paired with his friend, mentor, and partner, Oliver D. Rudy. Together they practiced law from 1971 to 1987 when Judge Gill was appointed to the 12th Judicial Circuit Court Bench succeeding the Honorable Ernest P. Gates. Judge Gill married his high school sweetheart, Judith Blick Gill, and had two daughters, Sherry Gill Wright (Brian), and Rachel Gill Young (Robert); four grandchildren, Wade Gill, Julia Wright, Alexander Young, and Rylan Young. Judge Gill leaves behind his treasured relationship with his brother, Craig Stewart Gill, and his extended family. Judge Gill enjoyed golf, dog racing, and his extended family. He was a member of legal and civic organizations along with his church affiliations at Ettrick, Belmont, and Woodlake United Methodist Churches. His life was good with bumps along the way. He knew that God will remedy the Earth's challenges and was ready for the next chapter. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, January 20, 2023, at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, Virginia 23834, with the Reverend Larry Cochran officiating. The family will receive friends after the service at the funeral home. Interment will be private. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to VCU Massey Cancer Center https://www.support.vcu.edu/give/Massey