Elsie M. Gilchrist

Elsie Mae Wilkerson Gilchrist was born on July 25, 1940, to the late James and Louise Jordan Wilkerson in Mecklenburg County, Virginia. She entered into eternal rest on May 15, 2026, at the age of 85, at Angel Care in Henrico, Virginia.

At an early age, Elsie was baptized and joined Bethlehem Baptist Church in Wise, North Carolina. She attended North Warren High School and graduated in June of 1958.

After graduation, Elsie met and married the love of her life, Charlie Gilchrist. Together, they shared a loving union of 60 years and were blessed with three children.

Elsie was employed at VCU Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, she worked in various positions for many years until retirement. She was known for her dedication, strong work ethic, kindness, and caring spirit toward others.

Later in life, Elsie dedicated her life to serving Jehovah and became a faithful member of Jehovah’s Witnesses on February 19, 1972. She found joy in studying God’s Word, sharing her faith with others, and encouraging family and friends through her quiet strength and loving heart.

Elsie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charlie Gilchrist; her parents, James and Louise Wilkerson; her brothers, James Wilkerson Jr. and Robert Lee Wilkerson.

She is survived by her devoted children: daughter, Vanessa Shelton; sons, Troy Gilchrist, Fabian Wilkerson (Rudell). She also leaves behind her loving sisters: Virginia Howell, Vonnie Williams (David), Doris Hendricks (Clyde); Brothers: John Wilkerson (Mary), Charles Wilkerson, Alphonso Wilkerson (Cynthia), Dale Wilkerson (Linda); Sister-in-laws: Lizzie Gilchrist, Joan Wilkerson, Edna Louise Wilkerson; Cherished grandchildren: Tarshika, Timothy (Dominique),Tierra, LaToya, Crystal; Great-grandchildren: Timothy Jr, Taverius, Xzavier, Todd Jr, Zaire, Jashawn, William, Nicholas, Noriel; Two aunts: Bessie Jordan and Alice Britt; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, spiritual family, and dear friends.

The family finds comfort in Jehovah’s promise of a resurrection and everlasting peace as stated in the Bible at John 5:28, 29 and Revelation 21:3,4.

Professional services entrusted to Walter J. Manning Funeral Home, 700 N. 25th St., where viewing will take place Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 1 to 7:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 2801 Mechanicsville Tpke., on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 2 p.m. Interment Oakwood Cemetery.