Edward Louis Via

Legacy of Love "Pentagon King” 1936 – 2019 Edward Louis Via, proudly known as “Eddie” to family and friends , was born minutes after his twin brother, Edgar Lee Via, to proud parents of the late Jerry and Nellie Hairston Via in Danville, Virginia on February 9, 1936. He was called home to be one of God’s newest angels on September 28, 2019. As a rambunctious young man, Louis grew up attending Dan’s Hill School and Southside High School. He was baptized at Jones Chapel Baptist Church in his home neighborhood in Danville. Later in life, he converted to the Methodist faith, and then later rededicated his life to Christ under the leadership of Faith Landmark Church in Richmond, Virginia. After high school, Louis enlisted into the United States Air Force with a proud career that encompassed a tour of duty ending being stationed at the United States Pentagon, Washington, DC. He bravely served his country and received an honorable discharge from the military. Eddie’s favorite work enterprise as an electrician, led him to employment as head master electrician with Philip Morris, Inc. in Richmond, Virginia. A job he took much pride in Louis’s most beloved job, however, his family and friends believe was his self-appointed job as “Ambassador” at waffle houses all over the south meeting and greeting folk and “holding court” as often as possible. If not at home, one could usually find him at the nearest waffle house socializing with his friends before he returned home to enjoy his Pepsi, pork skins, and Reeses’s peanut butter cups. Dignity, honesty, faithfulness, strength and courage are all words that describe Louis. He was a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, neighbor and friend. Louis was happily married to his beloved wife of 44 years, Hannah Dixon Via, who preceded him to the Kingdom of God along with his brother, Jerry Via, Jr.; two sisters, Mabel Murphy and Rebecca Via White Harper; granddaughter, Lekedria Strickland and his grandson, Christian Strickland. To continue his legacy of love for family and friends and helping any and all God’s children in need, Edward Louis Via leaves to continue his work on earth a son, Eddie Via; two daughters, Terri Via and Denise Strickland, loving granddaughter/caretaker Raven Via Brown (John); devoted grandson Hezekiah Anderson; adored great-grand, Hannah Brown. Also, his foster granddaughter, Jasmine Morrison. In addition, 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. Including his siblings: Pecora Lipscomb, Marie Motley, Edgar Lee Via, Herman Via, Jeanette Via, Barbara Via, Ruby Watkins (Lawrence), Dr. Mary Watkins (George), Dewey Via (Florence), George Via, and Sheree Via. As well as a village of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In memory of our dearly loved, and proud nubian giant with his boomimg voice we will all miss. We ask you to read and reflect on Proverbs 3: 27-35. Rest in peace our “gentle” giant; to God be the glory. The Via Family

Tributes

Edward Louis Via

February 9, 1936 - September 28, 2019