Dr. Geneva Williams Murray of Richmond, Virginia, departed this life on Monday, December 27, 2021. Geneva who was “affectionately called Gen” was born to Thomas and Carola Williams Jr. on July 30, 1934. She married the late William E. Murray, Jr. on September 1, 1956. She was graduated from Virginia Union University and worked at Consolidated Bank and Trust for a brief period. Geneva started her professional career with Henrico County Public Schools. Her career path led her to secure a Master’s in Education from Virginia Commonwealth University and a Doctorate in Education from NOVA Southeastern University.
During her tenure of 38 years with Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS), she taught elementary school and moved into a leadership position as an elementary supervisor concentrating on the teaching and delivery of science content. After Gen retired from HCPS, she accepted a position to support the teachers and leaders of Whitcomb Court Elementary School with Richmond City Public Schools (RPS).
Gen enjoyed activities outside of the educational realm. She enjoyed playing Pinochle and a group of ladies created a Pinochle club that lasted over 50 years. Gen was best known for her fishing, gardening, cooking, and canning skills. Gen had several gardens in the county of Henrico and one in her backyard. She loved fishing and made this a competition with everyone on the boat. She loved to cook and was known for her delicious fried chicken.
Gen enjoyed her membership and participation with Treble Clef Book Lover’s Club. She was also assigned the task of creating the annual Christmas Celebration invitations.
Gen was a devout member of Garland Avenue Baptist Church where she served on the Board of Trustees for several years, but her greatest fulfillment was serving as Chair of the Hospitality Committee. She enjoyed securing food from various locations, deciding on food prep and delivery. In all assignments, whether at work, church, or home, Gen was the “crank” that got people on board to complete the assigned mission.
On December 26, 2021, while waiting for her transport to the hospital Gen wanted to play a hand of Spades; therefore that is exactly what was done prior to her departure.
Gen was proceeded in death by her husband, William E. Murray; her brothers, Avon and James Williams; her sisters, Thomasina Bostic and Leola Jacobs. She is survived by her daughters Carolyn Montgomery (Paul), and Marilyn Royal; one grandson, Donald-William Murray Hinson (Melissa), a brother, Kenneth Williams; a nephew, Alonza Murray (Dana) who is considered a son after the death of his mother; two sisters-in-law, Lucille M. Brown and Delores S. Murray; a host of nieces and nephews living in North and South Carolina, Richmond, and New York; along with other relatives and friends; three devoted caretakes who provided excellent service, Ms. Deborah Bryant, Ms. Shaelynn Kinney (Kinney and Company), Ms. Tamara Smith, and At Home Care Nursing and Therapy Services; and Gen’s most cherished four-legged partner, Gabby, who held true to her duty of monitoring the service of the caregivers.
Her remains will rest at Scott’s Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd Park Boulevard, Richmond, Virginia, 23222. Family and friends are invited to the visitation at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Boulevard on Monday, January 3, 2022, from 5:00 - 6:00 PM. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, January 4, 2022, at Garland Avenue Baptist Church, 2700 Garland Avenue, Richmond, Virginia, 23222, with Dr. Jeffery Smith officiating. Interment services at Riverview Cemetery. The family of Geneva Murray extends sincere thanks to Drs. Jiho-Han and David Galligan with Virginia Cardiovascular Specialist (VSC), for their outstanding care for over the past 20 years.
Prayers and Condolences to Carolyn and Marilyn We have so many great memories during the times that we visited Aunt Geneva. We were always welcome with such warm sweet hospitality, delicious food and much fun and laughter. We always felt at home. We will never forget the love and support given to us. Love and Blessings to the family! Sylvia (Ernest) Mandrell, Nick, Katrina Bostic
Carolyn and Marilyn,
My condolences to you and the family. Geneva was quite a remarkable woman. Always the teacher. I will always remember her. May God continue to keep and bless you.
Erica R. Morris (Butch's Sister)
Ms. Royal and family, I am sorry to hear of the passing of your mom and grandmother. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Anita Croxton
Prayers and Condolences to Carolyn and Marilyn We have some many great memories of the times we visited Aunt Geneva. We enjoyed the sweet warm wonderful welcome, the delicious food, fun and laughter. We always felt right at home! We will never forget the love and support given to us throughout the years. Much love and prayers to the family. Sylvia (Ernest)Mandrell, Nick, Katrina Bostic and family
The members of Henrico Retired School Personnel Association extend their sincere condolences to the family of Geneva Murray. We also express our appreciation for her many years of service to students and staff and for her membership support in HRSPA.
Carolyn and Marilyn, Ms. Geneva is a treasure. I remember her loving and fun ways as we grew up together in Church Hill. You are a model of how to support and care for aging parents. I am sure she felt your love and that of many others in her life. God bless you and the family as you learn to live without Ms. Geneva's physical presence. I love you. Nancy Watkins Flanagan
Dr.Geneva W.Murray one of the greatest teacher in the world. I remember the soft spoken voice and your beautiful smile. Central Gardens Elementary School was the beginning of a great friendship. I known you and saying how great it is in my father house. I know you're with your husband now and he is glad to have you home again. I will never forget the talks we had. And l will never forget that smile. I will miss you but your work will live on. God bless the family and friends. Rodney Murray -Pee Wee God Bless
Dear Carolyn and Marilyn, I was saddened to learn of Geneva's demise. I have such fond memories of her on 19th Street in South Richmond and on Brook Road in Northside. She really had a way with her gardening skills and I was often the recipient of those home grown okra and tomatoes. I applaud you two and others for the loving care you gave to her during her illness. May the God we serve bless you in a special manner. Just know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Sincerely, Clarice Christian
Carolyn and Marilyn, I'm so sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. May your fond memories of your Mom forever give you peace and comfort... Cecilia (Booker) Harris
Condolences to Marilyn and Carolyn, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Hold the warm memories of your mother close to your heart as she has a permanent place thee. God Bless.....Neil Christian
My condolences to Carolyn and Marilyn on the passing of your mother, may her soul rest in the arms of our Lord and Savior.
My condolences to Carolyn and Marilyn on passing of your mom.May God comfort you and give you strengthen you both.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.