Eldred Robert Caveney “Mr. Al”

June 30, 2023, Eldred Robert Caveney, 91, of Caribou, Maine passed away peacefully with his beloved wife Catherine by his side.

In 1993 Eldred (better known as Al to his friends), a confirmed bachelor of 60, married the love of his life Catherine (Cay) Morgan Volk. For 29 years they resided happily in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

One of nine children, Al was born on June 7, 1932 to Delia and Edouard Caveney in New Brunswick, Canada. The family moved to Caribou, Maine and Al resided there until he enrolled in the National Guard for two years. After the National Guard, Al found his true calling as a barber for the United States Navy at the Exchange and his career spanned over 50 years. For the entirety of his career, he became an important and reliable fixture in his community; loved by his many customers and colleagues throughout the years. He was in high demand and cut hair for everyone from the admirals and enlisted men to the children of military families. Children always loved getting their hair cut by Mr. Al as he would flash a shiny coin to encourage them into his chair for a quick haircut. From that moment on they were happy to come see Mr. Al, which thrilled their mothers as well. In 2008 Al retired to spend more time with his loving family and friends.

He spent time as a locksmith and enjoyed the challenge of fixing things. Al had every tool imaginable in his immaculately organized garage. He was a frequent and savvy shopper, be it at the hardware store looking for gadgets to pass out to his many friends or at Dillard’s looking for the best buys to add to his wardrobe. He was always a sharp dresser and enjoyed going out on the town dancing with his shag partner for life, Cay. He spent early mornings enjoying breakfast with friends at local favorite spots to include Mary’s and Chick-fil-A. On Sundays after attending Star of The Sea Church services, Al & Cay could be found sharing a meal at Sunnyside or Sunrise Cafe. He appreciated a good meal at his favorite table enjoying the company and conversation of the regular wait staff and owners, who always looked forward to seeing his smiling face.

Al was always ready to take on new opportunities and did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values and was loved by everyone due to his kindness and giving nature. He had incredible patience, and always made time to help others. Al would often tell the story of an apple given to him as a child, what that meant to him, and how it influenced his life and his gift of giving to others. His legacy will carry on forever reminding us to choose to live a life of meaningful acts of love and service, like Christ modeled for us.

Always a gentleman, Al will be remembered for his giving heart which he shared with his friends and family. He truly loved each of them and if you knew him, you knew it by the sparkle in his eyes and how special he made you feel. When his time came, he carried himself with dignity, strength, and full of love for those who went before him. He will be missed dearly.

Al is survived by his wife, Cay Caveney, stepsons: Kirk & Lynn Volk, Kris & Tonya Volk, grandchildren: Chelsea Anderson & Keegan Young, Corey & Mackenzie Volk, Lindsey Volk, Ashley Volk, Emma Melton, and Lauren Anderson, great grandchildren: Ethan St. Peter and Kinslee Young.

Al was predeceased by his father, Edouard, mother, Delia, and siblings; Edward, Norman, Roland, Charlene, and Jean.

He is survived by his sisters; Carlene, Dodi, and Linda as well as his nieces.

Please join us for a memorial service to celebrate Al’s life. We will gather together on Friday, July 21 ,2023, 4:00 pm at Star of The Sea Catholic Church, 1404 Pacific Avenue, Virginia Beach, Virginia. Please bring your fondest memories of Al to share with family and friends.