In Memoriam – Dr. James Carraway and Mervyn Troyer

It is with great sadness that the Towne family learned of the passing of two founding board members – Dr. James Carraway of Norfolk and Mervyn Troyer of Chesapeake. 

Dr. James Carraway

9/18/37 – 8/28/2025 

Jim Carraway studied pre-med at George Washington University and UNC, then began medical school at UVA as part of the Air Force ROTC. During service in Vietnam, he provided care to armed forces personal as well as local children who needed surgical care. 

Jim completed plastic surgery residencies at Norfolk General and in Glasgow, Scotland. He returned to Norfolk to begin his career, eventually serving as director of the plastic surgery center at EVMS. 

Widely respected for his surgical skill and compassion, he mentored physicians and traveled the globe with Operation Smile and Physicians for Peace. He was awarded the Most Compassionate Doctor award by Patient Choice. 

Jim is survived by his wife Judy and their children Marc, Kim, Catherine, and David as well as many grandchildren including Hallie Hinman who works in TowneBank’s marketing department. 

James Carraway

Mervyn Troyer

Mervyn Troyer

7/3/1940 – 10/4/2025  

Merv Troyer was born in an Amish community in Ohio where he was raised with a strong work ethic and generosity toward others. In high school, he set football records that stood for more than 50 years.  

Merv made significant contributions to the game of golf and earned recognition as a legend in the sport in Hampton Roads. At the height of his career, he owned and operated seven golf courses across the region. He enjoyed the opportunity to employ and mentor many individuals and he had a special place in his heart for those who needed a second chance. 

In the 1980s he was inducted into the Virginia Softball Hall of Fame for his skills as a team manager. He was a longtime member of Mt. Pleasant Mennonite Church. 

Merv is survived by his wife Nina, their daughters Tina and Tammy and several grandchildren and great grandchildren.