Elvin Russell Cosby Jr.

Elvin Russell Cosby Jr. was born in Glen Allen, Virginia on January 21, 1928; the oldest of eight siblings of Elvin and Delia (Lewis) Cosby who both preceded him in death. His two sons, William and Marvin Cosby also preceded him in death.

Elvin's life was marked by a profound and unwavering love for his family, especially his wife, Lottie Jane Thomas, whom he married on May 5, 1951. Their bond was one built on love and commitment. Elvin made sure his family knew how much they meant to him. His devotion extended beyond his immediate family, demonstrating a remarkable care for his brother and sisters. Outside of family time, he had a variety of passions such as sports, cooking, joyriding, and shopping. He was an avid fan of both golf and baseball, always following the games with enthusiasm and a deep love for the sports. He had a talent for cooking, delighting in preparing delicious meals for his loved ones. His signature dish, "Mr. C's Spoonbread", became a favorite item on the menu at Westwood Racquet Club, where he worked part-time for 29 years. His talent for creating this delicious dish, earned him recognition and affection from both club members and staff. Elvin enjoyed taking leisurely drives to unwind and explore. These outings often turned into spontaneous history lessons, as he would share stories and insights about various places, making each drive an adventure. With his attention to detail, he took pride in coordinating his attire with care and precision for every occasion. These activities, along with his love for family and friends, helped shape the well-rounded and joyful life he led.

Elvin's faith journey was a central part of his life, guiding him through every phase with purpose and dedication. His parents instilled in him strong Christian values, the importance of helping others and serving the community. He accepted Christ at an early age and began his Christian journey at Chickahominy Baptist Church, where his foundation in faith was laid. Later, he became an active member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as the Sunday School Superintendent and on the Deacon board embodying leadership and service. Continuing his spiritual growth and commitment, on September 6, 1975, he became a member of St. Peter Baptist Church, and was installed as a Deacon on November 16, 1975, and Deacon Emeritus in 2012. His faith and dedication are a testament to his tireless service and the lasting impact he had on his church and community.

Elvin worked a variety of jobs, however in April 1946, he found what became his lifelong career, working for Henrico County Public Works. This position marked the beginning of many years of dedicated service, where he contributed to the development and maintenance of the local infrastructure. He helped build the foundation for the county’s workforce’s guiding philosophy of customer service that became known as the Henrico Way. He was instrumental in county initiatives, such as advising Henrico’s early efforts to promote a racially diverse workforce. In 2015, the county established the Elvin R. Cosby Award to recognize its long-tenured employees for their outstanding service and contributions. Henrico County paid tribute to Elvin’s remarkable service and dedication by naming a street in his honor: "Elvin Cosby Way". This special recognition highlighted his long-standing contributions, both as an employee and as a valued member of the community. "Elvin Cosby Way" serves as a testimony to his commitment, hard work, and the positive impact he made in Henrico County. He was driven by a tireless work ethic and a strong sense of service, both to his fellow employees and to the residents of Henrico County. In 2019, Elvin retired after an extraordinary 73 years of service to Henrico County Public Works. He described his time at Henrico County as “It just feels like home to me”.

Brother Elvin R. Cosby was raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in 1967 at Limelight Lodge #301. After the Lodge closed, he demitted to Jonathan Lodge #112, where he continued his Masonic journey. Over the years, he offered brotherly consultation to fellow Masons working in various departments of Henrico County, always providing guidance rooted in Christian values. His words were inspirational, reflecting the core principles of Freemasonry-friendship, morality, and brotherly love. In recognition of his decades of dedicated service, he was awarded his 50-year pin and certificate in 2017.

Elvin had a rare gift. He didn't just talk to people-he connected with them in a way that made them feel seen, heard, and valued. His warmth and openness drew others in, making them feel like they had known him for years after just a few minutes of conversation. Whether in a crowded room or a quiet corner, his presence left a lasting impression, and the mark he left wasn't just in the memories of those he spoke to, but in the way he made them feel more confident, more understood, and more willing to share themselves with the world.

Through his journey, Elvin remained a steadfast example of Christian love and service, leaving a legacy of faith that continues to inspire. We celebrate his life with gratitude for his triumphant contributions to his family, church, and community. May our beloved Elvin take his rest, knowing that his job here on earth was done exceptionally well.

Left to cherish his legacy and precious memories are his beloved wife of 73 years, Lottie Jane; his daughters Lena Brown (Joe), Kathy Allen (Ellis), Sandra Tynes (Lonzer), Joyce Cosby-Lewis (Herman), Della Cosby-Mason (Lionel), and Chartell Cosby-Wilkerson (Benjamin); three sisters, Viola Dallas, Florence Johnson, and Ethel Lee Latimer; 17 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; dedicated granddaughters, Charmaine Brown, Melinda Allen, Rochelle Allen, Crystal Allen, Lauren-Ashley Cosby and Destinee Cosby, a devoted niece, Johnnetta Cosby-Kenney; a devoted nephew, Theodore Thomas; his dedicated friends, Roger Jackson and Bernard McLaughlin; and a host of other family and friends.

A funeral service for Elvin will be held Friday, December 20, 2024 11:00 AM at St Peter Baptist Church, 2040 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23060, the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at church. A graveside service will occur Friday, December 20, 2024 at 12:30 PM at Roselawn Memory Gardens Cemetery, 13389 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA 23059.