Edna Keys-Chavis

Legacy of Love Edna Elizabeth Keys-Chavis entered into eternal rest on Friday, July 24, 2020. She was a wonderful mother, friend, businesswoman, support, trailblazer and amazing woman overall. Edna was born in Saluda, Virginia on January 2, 1954 to parents Wirt and Virginia Keys, both of whom have preceded her in death. When her mother passed suddenly, she and her siblings moved from New Jersey back to Virginia and were raised by her uncle James Burrell, Sr. (now deceased) and wife Dollie Burrell, along with their five children--James Burrell Jr. (Ettora), Anton Burrell, Donna Burrell, Craig Burrell (Mary) and Eric Burrell. Edna never lost sight of this selfless act, and used every opportunity she had to frequently honor and celebrate her aunt and uncle. Edna graduated from Armstrong High School in 1972. She furthered her education in Petersburg, Virginia at Virginia State University, where she majored in Business Administration. There she met and married her husband, Eugene Williams. They relocated to Maryland, and she continued her education and graduated with honors from Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD. Throughout her life, she continued to educate herself and earn many certifications and awards. From the marital union, a daughter, Mickia, was born. Edna loved the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and her life was a testament of her faith and beliefs. In any adversity she faced in life, she trusted God to guide her. Edna was an active member of Real Life Ministries in Richmond, Virginia, where Rev. Dr. Deborah M. Martin is pastor. She demonstrated her love for Christ through how she openly loved people, and often went out of her way to extend kindness to others. Before her retirement in 2007, Edna was a long-term City of Richmond employee, ultimately rising to the position of Richmond City Clerk, an executive position, appointed by Richmond City Council. Her appointment in 1991 made her the first female and the first African-American to serve in this role. Edna provided superb leadership for 16 years as the Clerk, resulting in the office receiving many outstanding service awards and recognitions. Edna participated where she saw a need--whether socially or politically--joining numerous boards and committees to further impact change. When she helped, she contributed her full energy, talents, and time to serve. Some causes that were dear to her involved advocating for families, women, and lessening the impacts of poverty and lack of education. Some of her most notable (public) awards were becoming the YWCA’s 25th Annual Outstanding Women award recipient in Government/Politics and for being an active committee member in the slavery reconciliatory statue installment in 2007. Edna was stylish and lived a vibrant life. She never met a stranger; people she encountered came to love and adore her. She was an avid traveler and among some of her favorite trips were lengthy stays in Dubai and many parts of South Africa. She was also very compassionate and gave generously to many philanthropic causes locally and abroad, very often donating anonymously. Edna leaves to cherish her memories a devoted family: daughter, Mickia Hemingway; six siblings, Genevieve Burrell, Lewis Burrell (Angela), Linwood Keys (Carolyn), William Keys, Mildred Gray and Yvonne Keys. Although she was not the eldest sibling, she functioned and supported her family and extended family as its matriarch. She will be greatly missed. Edna also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, a beloved friend--former Richmond City Mayor Larry Chavis, and her Maltese dog Bree who would often be seen with Edna in coordinated attire on their long walks. Edna Keys-Chavis, was an amazing woman.

Tributes

Edna Keys-Chavis

January 2, 1954 - July 24, 2020