Elmer Taylor Seay, Jr.

Elmer Taylor Seay, Jr., 90, peacefully joined the ancestors on Thursday, January 25, 2024, in Richmond. He was a dedicated social worker, history enthusiast, community
activist, veteran, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and accomplished self-taught artist. Elmer leaves behind a rich legacy of community service and creativity that has touched the hearts and minds of many.

Born on May 17, 1933, in Richmond, Virginia, Elmer was the second of five children born to Elmer Taylor, Sr. and Maria Seay. Affectionately known as “Brother” and “Seay” to family and friends, his spirit will forever be cherished.

Elmer received his education in Richmond Public Schools and proudly graduated from Armstrong High School in 1952. He went on to earn both a Bachelor's degree from Virginia Union University and a Master's degree from Richmond Professional Institute (VCU). Elmer dedicated a significant portion of his career to the City of Richmond Social Services Department, where he later retired. Even in retirement, he remained committed to the community by offering his time as a tutor for Richmond Public Schools and the Head Start program. After graduating from Virginia Union, Elmer enlisted in the Army and served as a military policeman. Upon completing his military service, he returned to Richmond, Virginia, to pursue his career. It was during this time that he met his future bride, Shirley Mae Hairston. Elmer and Shirley exchanged vows on June 30, 1962, in Martinsville, Virginia, and their union endured for an inspiring 62 years until his transition. To their union were born Terri and Jaye.

He was extremely proud of them both and their accomplishments, particularly their graduations from HBCUs; Howard University and Hampton University respectively.

Elmer was a devoted member of First African Baptist Church, having joined on Palm Sunday in 1950 at the 14th and Broad Street location, alongside his younger sister and brother. Throughout the years, he faithfully served as a valued member of the History Committee. In 2023, Elmer was honored and recognized as the Father of the Church. Elmer was a devoted and active lifetime member of his beloved fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated. He proudly joined the Lambda Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity on the campus of Virginia Union University. Throughout his years, he chaired the committee for the Sigma Beautillion for young men and enthusiastically participated in numerous other committees and activities. He especially enjoyed the annual Sigma Orchid Ball where he danced the evening away. Elmer wholeheartedly embodied the Sigma motto: “Culture For Service and Service For Humanity”. Elmer, a self-taught artist, was a masterful storyteller who skillfully wielded his brush, pen, and pencil to weave narratives of resilience, strength, and the inherent beauty within the African American experience. His artistic journey yielded many works, some of which were showcased in yearbooks for both Armstrong High School and Virginia Union University. His creations adorned not only the walls of his home but also found cherished places in the homes of family. In his retirement, he would spend evenings at the Pine Camp Cultural Arts Center learning how to throw pottery. Elmer took great pride and joy in witnessing his love for the arts blossom and take shape in the hearts of his children and grandchildren. Elmer was a dedicated lifetime member of the NAACP and actively contributed to The Richmond Crusade for Voters. He attended the historic First Million Man March in Washington, D.C., where he made history alongside his son Jaye. Additionally, Elmer played a pivotal role as one of the Founders of the Richmond Chapter of the National Association of Black Social Workers, Inc., in 1971 alongside lifelong friends Clinton Strane, Willie Dell, and the Dr. Norma Goode, Hilda Warden, James Ryan, Thomas Baynham, Edward Brown, Sandra T. Mitchell, and Oliver Epps.

Elmer was preceded in death by his parents Elmer Taylor Sr. and Maria Jackson Seay; brothers William Seay and John Seay. Those who cherish his memory are: wife, Shirley Hairston Seay; daughter, Terri Anderson (Philip); son, Jaye Seay (Jaime); sisters Evelyn Williams (Joseph) and Virginia Lewis (Albert); grandchildren, Bevin Brown (Christopher), Drew Anderson, Farron Anderson, Arielle Seay, Noemi Seay, and Brienna Seay; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 12, 2024, 6:00 to 7:30 pm at Mimms Funeral Home 1827 Hull Street Richmond, VA 23224 . The Omega Service will begin at 6:00 pm. A Celebration of Elmer’s Life will be Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at 11 a.m. First African Baptist Church 2700 Hanes Ave. Richmond, VA 23222. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the Educational Department of First African Baptist Church.