Ms. Candis Souder

“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)

On Monday, March 2, 2026, Ms. Candis Souder, age 76, of Hampton, Virginia, entered eternal rest peacefully at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on September 25, 1949, to the late Thelma and Charles R. Johnson.

She attended Robert R. Moton Elementary School and later graduated from Phoenix High School in Hampton, Virginia. Continuing her education at Thomas Nelson Community College–now known as Peninsula Community College– she earned her degree and fulfilled her calling as a Registered Nurse.

In, 1990, the Lord instructed Candis to start a home health business  for the elderly and disabled. STAT Home Health started as an office in a converted garage thrived and prospered into multiple businesses, for many years, occupying several offices. She used these businesses to employ dozens and bless many more.

A change in the political climate impacted her home health businesses, but Candis adapted. In, 2005, after learning about a foreclosed private school on an acre of land in Newport News, Virginia, she followed the Lord's guidance and turned it into a prosperous daycare – WhileAway Child Care – where she touched the lives of dozens of children and their parents—continuing a constant theme in her life of being a blessing to all those that were around her. 

She was united in marriage to Joseph (Joe) Souder, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her oldest sister, Donna Askins Applegate.

Candis was a faithful member of Faith for Living Pentecostal Church under the pastoral oversight of Mrs. Saundra Trumble. She loved the Lord, cherished her pastor, and found great joy in reading the Holy Bible. Known for her servant’s heart and her gift of helps, she was always willing to labor in service to others.

Although illness prevented her from attending services regularly in recent years, her faith remained steadfast. She trusted God without wavering, knowing that He was in control and accepting His divine will for her life.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory, three children, Kimberly Maxwell (Grady), Christopher Souder, and Melan Souder; two grandchildren, Jovan Maxwell and Grady Maxwell; and two great-grandchildren, Carter Maxwell and Sabyn Maxwell.

She also leaves to cherish her memory two brothers, Roger Askins of Orlando, Florida, and Victor Coy of Tacoma, Washington; four sisters, Brenda Tucker of Memphis, Tennessee, Davee’ Wilson (Bill) of Louisville, Kentucky, Crystal Gonfa (Tamrat), and Shanna Coy of Tacoma, Washington; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

The family of Mrs. Candis Souder gratefully acknowledges every expression of love, prayers, and support shown during this time of bereavement.

The family of Mrs. Candis Souder has entrusted her final care to Hampton Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.

It is the desire of the Maxwell/Souder families that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Ms. Candis Souder has entrusted her final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

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