Ortie Myrtle Lacks

Ortie Myrtle Lacks, of South Boston, Virginia, passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the blessed age of 96. She was born in Charlotte County on January 5, 1930, to the late Fitzhugh and Leena Wilmoth Lacks. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Henry Aubrey Lacks and John Will Lacks.

Ortie was seamstress for many years with Freeman and Marks. Her house was always open to family and friends, where she shared her incredible home cooked meals and was known for her hospitality. She had a way of making everyone feel welcome, as she never met a stranger. Her home was a gathering place filled with laughter, warmth, and the delicious aromas of her cooking.

She is survived by her sons, Tommy Lacks (Judy) and Jerry Lacks (Becky); grandchildren, Troy, Jason, Lee, and Julie; numerous great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren; brother, Richard Lacks (Barbara); her beloved dog, Jake; and numerous nieces and nephews.

in addition to her parents and her husbands, she was also preceded in death by her grandson, Todd; 4 sisters and 4 brothers.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at Second Baptist Church in South Boston. Burial will follow in Dale Memorial in Richmond. The family will receive friends on Monday night, February 23, 2026 from 6 PM until 8 PM at Brooks Lyon Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the First Care at Home Hospice and her many friends that she loved dearly.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Second Baptist Church, 1402 Watkins Avenue, South Boston, VA 24592 or the Halifax County Cancer Association, PO Box 1891, Halifax, VA 24558.

Brooks Lyon Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to be serving the Lacks family and offers online condolences by visiting their website, www.brookslyon.com or by going to their Facebook page.