Myrtle Olevia Braithwaite

Woodstock, Virginia – Myrtle Olevia Evans Braithwaite, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sibling and devoted servant of her community, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born on January 19, 1933, in Maurertown, Virginia, Myrtle was a cherished daughter of the late Frank Evans and Edythe Thompson Evans Barrick.

Myrtle was preceded in death by her loving husband, Russell E. (Gene) Braithwaite Sr., with whom she shared a lifetime of devotion and family. Together, they raised a strong and loving family rooted in faith, music, and generosity.

She is survived by her six children: Robert "Bobby" (Connie, children Sherri and the late Clinton); Russell Jr. "Rusty" (Kathy, children Gwinn and Chuck); Thomas "Tom" (Karen, children TJ, Brandon, Tristan, and Marissa); Timothy "Tim" (Pauline, children Zachary, Amanda and Buddy); Winona "Winnie" Braithwaite Murray (Kurt); and Frank (Jeannie, children Olevia and Trevor). Her legacy continues through her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom she treasured dearly.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Frank Evans, Bob Evans, Tommy Evans, Jimmy Thomale and is also survived by siblings Margie Evans Richardson, Danny Thomale, Jerry Thomale, Ernie Bauserman and Mary Sager.

Myrtle brought warmth, grace, and a generous spirit to all who knew her.

As a gifted pianist, Myrtle loved to share her musical talents freely and with joy, playing at churches, weddings, funerals and Lynn Care Nursing Home. Her music was her ministry-gentle, steadfast, and full of love.

Myrtle's life was defined by kindness, compassion, and quiet strength. She gave freely, lived humbly, and lifted those around her with her infamous cooking and baking skills, her music and unwavering love. Her family and community will feel the echoes of her melodies-and her spirit-for generations to come. Visitation will be held at Heishman Funeral Home Inc. – Valley Funeral Service, 14116 South Middle Road Edinburg, Virginia 22824 on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM. Her internment will be held at a later date with her immediate family.

Online condolences may be left at valleyfs.com

Arrangements are in the care of Heishman Funeral Home Inc., Valley Funeral Service Branch, Edinburg.