Luke R. Vandegrift

Luke Robert Vandegrift–son, brother, nephew, friend, sailor–– passed away unexpectedly September 28, 2024 at the age of 24. He was a lifelong resident of Nanjemoy, Maryland.

Born on June 8, 2000, Luke was the beloved son of the late Karen Wathen. After the passing of his mother, Luke was raised by his aunt and uncle Victoria Wathen Carey (Momma) and Tommy Carey, Sr., (Dad) and his late grandparents Arwin (PopPop) and Jeanette (Nina)Vandegrift who raised him as their own and were his loving parents. His devoted uncle and aunt, Pat and Arlene Vandegrift, also played an essential role in Luke’s life, helping him enter the workforce through the Seafarers International Union, where he proudly completed the Seafarers Apprenticeship Program, becoming a dedicated United States Merchant Marine.

He is survived by Victoria Wathen Carey and Tommy Carey, Sr.; Patrick and Arlene Vandegrift; his dear siblings Holly and Abby Vandegrift; Brandy Gilroy; Joe Potter III , Tommy Carey Jr., and Stephanie Carey Bryant. He also left behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is preceded in death by his loving mother Karen Wathen; his paternal grandparents Nina and PopPop; his maternal grandparents June Bowie (MeMe) and Bernie Wathen Jr. (Grandpa); first cousin James Cowger III (Jimmy); his brother in law Frankie Bryant III (Fatts); his great uncle Mark Wathen Sr.; his lifelong friend Chuck Busey; and his first love Katie Willett.

Luke was a ray of light that touched everyone who knew him. Luke was an avid chess player, he never lost a game and won many Championships. He enjoyed motorcycles, fishing, hunting, music, playing guitar. Luke also enjoyed racing his U-Car at the dirt track and his trips to Busco Beach. He loved taking his Momma to bingo and the slots. Luke grew up on the water and took pleasure being around it. He was accomplished as a Seafarer sailing around the world’s oceans supporting the United States economic and military necessities abroad. Luke took pride in his job.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Arehart–Echols Funeral Home in LaPlata, Maryland. Visitation hours will be Monday, October 7, 2024, from 2–4 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. (7 p.m. prayers) The funeral will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home and the burial will be at Pisgah Nazarene Church Cemetery with Rev. David Blades officiating. Pallbearers will be Pat Vandegrift, Tommy Carey Jr., Joe Potter III, Frank Wathen, Garrett Cobb, and John Cobb. Honorary pallbearer is Tommy Carey Sr.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to the Church of the Nazarene to maintain the beautiful cemetery where Luke will reside with his mother Karen. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home and can also be mailed to 35 Raymond Ave, Indian Head, MD 20640.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at arehartechols.com

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