William G. Redd Sr.

William G. Redd Sr., 84 of Charlottesville, Virginia, passed away on January 10, 2024. He was born on June 17, 1939, to the late Lucy Redd Morton and Floyd Key Sr. William is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Lois G. Redd; two sons, William G. Redd Jr. (Joy) and Christopher A. Redd (Nicole); daughter Crystal A. Redd; two granddaughters Carter A. Redd and Brooklyn A. Redd; siblings Doris Anne Morton, Steve Lee Morton, George Morton, Linda McCurdy, Tutlenia Garner, and Travis Key; devoted cousins Peggy Jones, Bessie Payne, Rosa Ayres, Michael Williams, and Audrey Oliver; nieces, nephews, and many dear friends who are like family.

William was a native of Charlottesville and attended Jefferson Elementary School and Burley High School at a time when all schools were segregated. He was a member of the Burley Class of 1958 and excelled at football and basketball. He was a proud member of the 1956 Burley Bears football team who were undefeated, untied, and unscored on, a record that remains to this day. In his later years, William would dedicate his time and energy to the Burley Varsity Club, helping to preserve, protect, and memorialize the profound legacy of Burley High School for the community. William would readily share his love of history with anyone, participating in interviews, panels, and events discussing local history.

After graduating from high school, William began work at Victorius, Inc., a framing business, where he learned skills he would use throughout his life including drawing, design, and construction. William became a salesman, or a “professional clothier” as he described it, at Ed Michtom’s, working there for 18 years. He then moved to Eljo’s Traditional Clothes, working at its location on the University Corner and on Millmont Street. He retired after over 45 years in the business.

William enjoyed working outside, cutting people’s yards, and maintaining their landscaping. He loved to work with his hands, designing and building decks, patios, fences, and other structures for family and community members. He was a frequent attendee at local high school sports events with his friend, Phillip Jones; he loved supporting the teams and cheering them on. He was an active member of Zion Union Baptist Church, attending service and traveling with his church family. He loved traveling with his wife and family members across the country and even traveled to Europe.

A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 20th at 11 am at Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church at 105 Lankford Avenue, Charlottesville, Virginia 22902. Visitation will precede the service at 10 am.