Emily Atkinson Swelnis
Emily Swelnis Obituary
Emily A. Swelnis, age 88, of Midlothian, Virginia, passed away on December 24, 2024. She was born December 15, 1936 in Petersburg, Virginia; daughter of Thurman Chrystor Atkinson and Bettie Mae (Watkins) Hallett. She was a proud graduate of Blackstone High School and continued her education at Longwood College in Farmville, Virginia where she earned a bachelor degree in 1958. She was united in marriage to Lloyd Swelnis on April 13, 1975; they spent 49 years lovingly devoted to one another.
Emily was the founder of Braxton School of Business in Richmond, Virginia. She was an incredibly hard worker, managing the school and often teaching classes.
Emily is survived by her loving husband, Lloyd Swelnis; her sister Bettie Telepo; and many loved nieces, nephews, including their children. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Anna Spruill, Naomi Skinner, T.C. Atkinson, Jr., and her niece Jennifer Hudson.
A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Butterwood United Methodist Church, 2411 Darvills Road, Blackstone, VA.
In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Butterwood United Methodist Church c/o Jimmy Maitland, 6967 Grubby Road, Wilsons, VA 23894. Arrangements by the Blackstone Chapel of the Joseph McMillian Funeral Home, 1826 Cox Rd., Blackstone, VA 23824.
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