Earl Paul Cain, Sr., 81, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Robeson County, North Carolina, Earl proudly served his country as a Vietnam veteran. He moved to Virginia and retired from Aqualon as an air conditioning and refrigeration specialist and later worked part-time at Standard Motors, enjoying the time spent alongside his son.

Earl was a devoted husband to Josephine Cain for 57 years. He was a proud father, grandfather, and brother who treasured family trips, fishing, UVA sports, and cheering for the Dallas Cowboys. He shared a special bond with his granddaughter Sarah and his dog, Sonny, who accompanied him everywhere.

He is survived by his wife Josephine; daughter Kimberly Cain Minton (Walter Minton); granddaughter Sarah Fitch Stullich (Kai Stullich); grandson Austin Minton (Alexis); and son Reid Walker Minton. He also leaves sisters Malvene, Rosalie, Mary, and Joyce, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Raymond Aaron Cain and Sallie Wilkens Cain, brothers Eugene, Billy, James Leon, and Robert Cain, and nephews Greg White and Alfred Raymond Cain.

A service will be held at the Petersburg Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 3935 S. Crater Road, Petersburg, VA 23805 on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. The family will welcome friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m..

Earl will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his love, humor, and devotion to family.

In addition to flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to the Hospice Center at Bon Secours in Petersburg, VA.