Dr. Wendell Collette
Calvary Cemetery
Old Calvary, Not in PF
(1902-1945)
Dr. Wendell P. Collete was born in Norfolk, to George and Celestine Collette. After attending high school at St. Paul’s Polytechnic Institute, he earned a bachelors degree from Howard University. Following graduation, he enrolled at the university’s medical school. He graduated with honors from Howard medical school and was offered a medical position by the Ethiopian Government. However, he declined this offer and returned to Norfolk. For 14 years, he served as a surgeon at Norfolk Community Hospital and maintained an office in the Attucks Building at 1008 Church Street. He gained a reputation for his skill and was known as one of Norfolk’s most popular physicians. At the time of his premature death, he was the chief of the out-patient and clinical service department. He married Celestine Eloise Thompson in 1930. The resided at 2500 Corprew Avenue and are interred together at Calvary. They had one daughter, Eloise Virginia Collette.
Dr. Wendell Collette Brings Home His Bride
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003); Dec 27, 1930;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. 4
George W. Collette, Father Of The late Dr. Wendell P. Collette, Drops Dead In...
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003); Sep 1, 1945;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. A6
Dr. Collette Awarded Scroll For Achievement In Surgery
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003); Dec 30, 1944;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. A3
Dr. Wendelt P. Collette Succumbs
New Journal and Guide (1921-2003); Jul 21, 1945;
ProQuest Historical Newspapers Norfolk Journal and Guide (1921-2003)
pg. B1
Biographical information provided by Norfolk Bureau of Cemeteries.
Visitor Information
Visitor Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
Office hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Saturday 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Free parking inside cemetery.
Admission Cost: Free
Address: 1600 St. Julian Ave., Norfolk, VA 23504
Official web site for more information: www.norfolk.gov/cemeteries
Norfolk Society for Cemetery Conservation Web Site: