Hattie Wood May

MAY, Hattie Wood, one of nine siblings, was born in Lunenburg County, Va., on September 23, 1917, to the late Suelivia and Peyton May. She departed this life on March 31, 2009 at the Retreat Hospital in Richmond, Va. Hattie's journey with the Lord began early in life as it did for all of her siblings. She was baptized at the Friendship Baptist Church in Kenbridge, Va. As a teenager, Hattie moved to Richmond to live with her older sister, Janie. Although she did not have much formal education, she believed in hard work. She worked proudly as a domestic, working for the Wagner family for over 55 years. Hattie remained close to the Wagners even after she retired. With her older sister attending Trinity Baptist Church, Hattie made Trinity her home as well. She served faithfully on the Ladies Auxiliary Usher Board and was a life member of the Baptist General Conventions Ladies Auxiliary Guild. Hattie gave birth to two children, Eugene May and Evelyn C. Jones (both who preceded her in death) and was a proud mother. She was a truly caring and giving person who was willing to assist anyone who was in need. As her health failed, her faith never waned. Although she was growing weaker, she would still sing and call on the name of the Lord because she knew that she had "come this far by faith." Hattie is survived by her grandchildren, Eugene May, Michelle Jones of San Diego, Angela Scanty, Pastor Michael Jones (Tanya) and Geniene May; six great-grandchildren, Adrian and Adriana Jones, Antoine and Angelica Scanty, Jocelyn and Jason Jones; and host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Remains rest at Chiles Funeral Home, 2100 Fairmount Ave. Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 6, 2009 at Trinity Baptist Church, 2811 Fendall Ave. Interment Forest Lawn. Remains will rest in church one prior to services.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.