Gordon Andrew Zedd

NOROLK – Gordon Andrew Zedd, 59, passed away July 31 in Norfolk, the city where he was born and spent much of his life.

He was the son of Judith Golding Zedd and Ronald Burt Zedd, both of blessed memory, and the older brother of Barton. A graduate of Norfolk Academy, Tulane University, and the University of Richmond Law School, Gordon practiced law with distinction for many years, representing his clients—and often his friends and relatives—with creativity and compassion. Gordon notably won the freedom of a man who had been wrongly incarcerated for 21 years.

Outside the courtroom, Gordon could be found watching live music around town and often well beyond, occasionally with his brother but always with dear friends and kindred spirits who were as drawn to Gordon’s wit, humor, and charm as to any musical act.

Unbeknownst to many, Gordon developed a deep interest in Jewish studies, studying weekly in havruta as an extension of his lifelong commitment to Judaism. He was a third-generation member of Congregation Beth El in Norfolk, which served as his spiritual home even though he was rarely the first one to arrive.
The only thing that rivaled his zeal for live music and Judaism was his love and loyalty to his family. His greatest joy was spending time with his brother Barton and nephews Jacob, Michael, and Eliot, his dear Aunt Kay Zedd Kesser and her family, all of whom he adored. He will be so dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his brother, Barton Zedd; nephews Jacob, Michael, and Eliot Zedd; aunts Kay Zedd Kesser, Leslie Zedd, Linda (David) Cohen, Sandra (Howard) Peskin and many loving relatives and dear friends.
Barton would like to recognize and thank Mrs. Sheri Miller for her near-lifetime devotion to the Zedd family, first as legal assistant for Gordon’s father, Ronald Burt Zedd, from 1985-2018, and then for Gordon from 2018 until present day. Neither would have achieved his level of success without her commitment, hard work and love for the Zedd family. Barton would also like to thank Mrs. Leesa Forehand who loyally and capably supported Gordon’s law practice for more than twenty years.

The funeral was held at Congregation Beth El. Interment followed at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.