Rachel Edwards

Mattox

Rachel Edwards Mattox, of Henrico, a beloved matriarch, lifelong educator and unwavering pillar of her community, peacefully transitioned on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 7:00 PM, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 12, 1937, in Union Hall, Virginia to Willie H. and Ethel Smith Edwards.

Her professional life was defined by a passion for teaching and a heart for young people. Through decades of service as an educator, she helped shape the lives of countless students with wisdom, patience and a belief in every child's potential. Rachel has held several roles across education: Teacher, Curricula Specialist and Assistant Principal at Lee M. Waid Elementary, Rocky Mount, VA; True Vine Elementary, Glade Hill, VA; Mosby Elementary, Cary Model School, Belle Meade Elementary and Blackwell Elementary, all in Richmond, VA.

She was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband, Joe Earley Mattox, Sr.; two sisters, Fannie Preston (Roosevelt) and Annie and five brothers, Lee (Virginia), Elbert (Virginia), Ivan, Joseph and Benjamin.

Surviving are three loving sons, Joe Mattox Jr. (Octavia), Cullen Mattox (Elitia) of New York, NY and Ivan Mattox Sr. (Janice) of Goochland, VA; one honorary son, E. Keith Edwards (Donna); five grandsons; Jamar (Porsche), Ivan Jr., Nathan (Alysha), Cordell and Kelvin; four granddaughters, Ashley, Joniqua, Ashante and Rayelle; eight great-grandchildren, Aziah, London, Aaliyah, Carter, Cali, Derielle, Nathan Jr. and Legend; four honorary grandchildren, Alonzo, Briana, Lindsay, and Kelsey; sister, Velather of Lafayette, CA,; brother, Dewell (Hilda) of The Villages, FL; three caring nurses, Regina , Victoria and Glenda; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church members and lifelong friends.

Rachel's life was a sermon of love in action—teaching, serving, listening, giving and leading with grace. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched, the lessons she taught and the generations she inspired.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Thursday, May 15, 2025. Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Friday, May 16 at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Reverend Marvin Fields, Eulogist. Interment Forest Cemetery.