Timothy MacBeth Veney

Two things defined the life of Timothy MacBeth Veney: family and laughter. In truth, they are the two words that are mentioned over and over again as those who both loved and admired him share their memories of his life as a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, police officer, and, above all, a true friend. Just a few weeks ago, Tim went off on an RV camping adventure with his wife Loretta, as they had many times before, this time working and camping at the KOA Resort in Herkimer, NY, where they quickly became active and valued members of the community, as they always did wherever they lived or traveled. While in New York, Tim suffered a series of strokes and peacefully transitioned at 1:20 pm. on July 17, 2016 in Cooperstown, with his beloved wife, daughter, and granddaughter by his side. His time on this earth ended as it began, surrounded by a loving family. Tim was born on May 19, 1950, the seventh of eight children to Lawson Jerome and Carol Veney, beginning his life at Freedman’s Hospital in Washington, D.C. His early life was spent at Cheltenham Boys Village, where his father was the first African-American head administrator; Tim attended schools in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and West Mifflin, Pennsylvania, before graduating from Calvin Coolidge High School in Washington, D.C. in 1969. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1970, then married the late Lula Mae Pressley in March 1971; while stationed in Wurzburg, Germany, Tim celebrated the birth of his only child, Kimberly Renee Veney, on December 21, 1971. On September 21, 1985, Tim married his Endless Love, Loretta Ann Woodward. Tim met Loretta when he was a police officer, taking her out on patrol with him when she was studying criminal justice at George Washington University. Following an honorable discharge from the U. S. Army, Tim had worked briefly for PEPCO before beginning a distinguished career in 1975 with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C., where he served as both an undercover and patrol officer in the 2nd District. It was when he transferred to the 3rd District where Tim met his favorite — and most beloved — partner, K9 officer Bear #14. They were devoted companions who shared the utmost trust in each other. Throughout his career with MPD, Tim was considered a remarkable officer with stellar ethics, a gregarious personality, and a rich laugh that wrapped you in its warmth. When he retired from MPD in 1996, much to the dismay of his colleagues, he remained an invaluable mentor and close friend, maintaining close-knit relationships with his fellow officers for the rest of his life. An avid sportsman with a true gusto for life, Tim was a high school football star, swimmer, advanced skier, softball player, and a passionate golfer. Not content to retire quietly to the sidelines after leaving MPD, Tim started a sedan service, Bear Sedan, and, par for the course, went on to establish loyal relationships with his clients, some of the country’s most affluent business, sports, and political leaders, who considered him a dear friend and brother. Tim loved his St. Mark’s community and served as Beadle Coordinator for 3 years. He was more than a parishioner at St. Mark’s; His warm greetings and hugs were part of the Church’s fabric. Perhaps a defining characteristic of Tim’s life was his ability to establish long and meaningful relationships with so many people who considered him to be both a guiding and loving force in their lives. Tim and Loretta together are godparents, OMA (“Other Mother”), and Paparazzi to 13 children: Jordan, Colin, Devin, Brandon, and Kiernan Vorgang; Bryanna Hall; Sharon Sternberg; Laleen, Jaycee, Robert, and Michael Gilewski; Taylor Byrd; Samantha Slade; and Lauren Hirshman. On December 14, 2011, Tim was delighted and proud to become Pappy to his granddaughter, Kendal Simone Seward. Everyone who saw Pappy and Princess Lioness Cub together knew that they were inseparable buddies, and Kendal’s laughter made Tim’s eyes sparkle as he swept her up into his signature bear hug. The love that Tim and Loretta shared for over 30 years is truly endless. Together they climbed mountains and conquered life and love with unwavering faith in God, unshakeable trust in each other, and a love so strong that it touched the lives of those around them, both strangers and friends alike. True to their adventurous spirit, they traveled the world by plane, train, boat, bus, car, RV, hot air balloon, and even on the back of a camel. Awaiting Tim in heaven are his parents, Lawson Jerome Veney and Carol Veney; brothers Michael Veney and Butch Veney; and sister Carol Shaw. He is survived by his wife, Loretta Woodward Veney; daughter, Kimberly Renee-Veney Seward; son-in-law, Herbert Lee Seward III; granddaughter, Kendal Simone Seward; siblings, Rhoda Veney, Kathleen Byrd, Linda Veney, and Christopher Veney; and nieces, nephews, and their families, Michele Veney-Akins, Raphaella Slade, Jeannean Odonnell, Beth Shaw, Mark Veney, Damon Byrd, and Rhoda Thomas. Tim has left an indelible mark on scores of family and friends that will continue to bring his legacy of open arms to the world. Though in body we will not see him, we know that his laughter and love will always be felt in our souls. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Timothy MacBeth Veney please visit our Sympathy Store.