Rachel Cora Kate Edwards Mattox, 87 of Richmond, VA, 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.

From her earliest years in Union Hall, Rachel exhibited a profound love for learning and a deep commitment to uplifting others. She was educated in Franklin County, Virginia, and graduated from Franklin County Training School in Rocky Mount. In 1959, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Virginia Union University. Her pursuit of academic excellence continued with honor in her graduate studies, culminating in a Master’s in Education from the University of Virginia in 1975.

Rooted in a strong Christian upbringing, Rachel remained a faithful and lifelong member of Sweet Union Baptist Church in Roanoke, Virginia, where she served with quiet strength and deep devotion.

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 of Rocky Mount, VA; True Vine Elementary of Glade Hill, VA; Mosby Elementary of Richmond, VA; Cary Model School of Richmond VA; Belle Meade Elementary of Richmond, VA; Blackwell Elementary of Richmond, VA.

Rachel's love of service extended well beyond the classroom. She volunteered generously at local hospitals and mentored individuals across generations. She gave her time and talent as a proud member of Pi Lambda Theta International Honor Society, The Blackwell Gems, The Wednesday Girls, and the Ethics Committee at Bon Secours Hospital.

To be welcomed into Rachel's home was to feel cherished. She was known for her open heart, open kitchen, and storytelling that connected generations. Whether preparing a soul-warming meal or offering sound counsel, she nurtured everyone who crossed her threshold.

She is survived by her three loving sons: Joe Mattox Jr. (Octavia) of Richmond, VA; Cullen Mattox (Elitia) of New York, NY; and Ivan Mattox Sr. (Janice) of Goochland, VA. One honorary son, E. Keith Edwards (Donna).

Rachel’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Jamar (Porsche), Ivan Jr., Nathan (Alysha), Cordell, and Kelvin; her granddaughters: Ashley, Joniqua, Ashante, and Rayelle; and her great-grandchildren: Aziah, London, Aaliyah, Carter, Cali, Derielle, Nathan Jr., and Legend. She also held dear to her heart: Alonzo, Briana, Lindsay, and Kelsey.

Rachel is also survived by one sister, Velather of Lafayette, CA, and one brother, Dewell (Hilda) of The Villages, FL; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church members, and lifelong friends.

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 (companion Cecelia), and Benjamin (companion Nancy).

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.

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