W. Trent Fox

Published 2:01 pm Tuesday, March 11, 2025

CAPRON – William Trent Fox, 93, passed peacefully on March 8, 2025. Born March 3, 1932 and raised in Capron, Virginia, he was predeceased by his parents, John Elwood Fox Sr. and Elizabeth Trent Fox; a grandson, Jackson Clarke Fox; a sister, Betty Fox Mapp and a brother, John Elwood Fox Jr.

Trent graduated from VPI in 1953 with a degree in Agricultural Economics and entered the Army as a Second Lieutenant. Upon discharge, he married and then pursued his master’s degree at the University of Richmond. He began his career with Southern States in Petersburg, Va., but his father’s untimely death redirected his path. At the ripe age of 26, he returned to Capron to begin farming

W. Trent Fox

family land and subsequently established a farm equipment business.

Trent cared deeply for his community and was active in the civic life of Southampton County serving on several boards. He was instrumental in the organization of Southampton Academy, a faithful congregant and steward of Capron Methodist Church, and an active member of the Capron Ruritan Club. A lifelong learner who was interested in history and culture, Trent loved to travel – a love he shared generously with his family. At the time of his passing, he had visited every state except Hawaii, and though he traveled to many countries, England was his favorite.

He is survived by his wife and cherished companion of 68 years, Joanne Clarke Fox of Jarratt, Virginia, as well as three sons, William Trent Fox Jr. and wife Tiffin of Waldmohr, Germany, Clarke England Fox and wife Beth of Capron, Clifford Spotswood Fox and wife Carol of Capron and a daughter, Courtney Fox Day of Midlothian; 10 grandchildren, William Fox, Alex Fox, Chris Fox, Edward Fox, Thomas Fox, Ashby Day Keefer, McGowan Day, Madison Day, Olivia Fox and Ford Fox; seven great-grandchildren; and a sister, Marilyn Fox Roach.

Trent’s family remember him as a man who was good-natured, caring, and honorable. A loving husband, dependable father, and devoted “Poppa,” he was the first to offer a quiet act of encouragement, a wholesome joke, and most of all, a steadfast example. He will be tremendously missed.

Trent’s life following his stroke in 2020 was difficult and the family expresses utmost thanks to all those who offered support, particularly his wonderful caregivers who often went above and beyond their job descriptions when looking after him. Their compassion and dedication, not only toward Trent but toward his entire family, are a true testament to their character.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 21 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Wright Funeral Home in Franklin. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 22 at 2 p.m. at Capron Methodist Church; interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Capron Methodist Church or Southampton Academy.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org