Lorna S. Bouldin was born on October 6, 1934, in Norfolk, Virginia to the parents of John W. and Lillian Shell. Surrounded by her family at home, she peacefully transitioned from this life at the age of 90 to her heavenly home on November 7, 2024.
Lorna Bouldin’s legacy is one of academic excellence, dedicated service, and unwavering community involvement. A proud member of the Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1952, she graduated as the 3rd honor student and the first female honor student. She continued her academic journey at Virginia State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education. Lorna went on to pursue graduate training, making history as the first African American woman to earn a Master’s degree in Home Economics Education from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, now known as Virginia Tech.
Her professional career spanned more than three decades in education. For 14 years, Lorna served as a home economics teacher with Norfolk Public Schools, inspiring countless students. She later became the State Supervisor of Home Economics Education for the Virginia Department of Education, overseeing the Eastern, Southeastern, and Northern regions of Virginia for 19 years. In this role, she shaped curriculum, mentored educators, and championed the importance of home economics education across the state.
Beyond her work in education, Lorna was deeply committed to her faith and community. A lifelong member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Norfolk, Virginia, Lorna continued her mother Lillian Shell’s legacy by teaching the Shell Bible Class she founded. Lorna was also a member of the Friendly Trio Gospel Singers, sang in the choir, and served on numerous other boards and committees.
Her dedication to service extended to her affiliations with several organizations. Lorna joined the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. sisterhood as a 1955 Spring Initiate of the Alpha Epsilon Chapter and remained a proud lifetime member. She continued her commitment to the sorority as an active graduate member of the Iota Omega Chapter. Lorna was also a committed member of the Women’s Club of Norfolk, contributing to her community in countless ways throughout her life.
Lorna Bouldin’s life was a testament to the power of education, faith, and service—leaving an indelible mark on her community, her church, and the generations of students she mentored. But above all, Lorna’s deep and unwavering love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, reflected not only in her daily actions but also in especially generous ways, such as planning annual summer vacations. She took great care in organizing these trips, ensuring they created cherished memories and strengthened the bonds that mattered most to her. Her favorite passage of scripture, 1 Corinthians 13, known as the love chapter, reflected the essence of who she was—devoted, selfless, and full of grace. She was a great listener, always offering a kind ear and a thoughtful word. She had a way of making those around her feel truly heard and valued, offering not only advice but encouragement and wisdom in her own special way. Her words were often laced with beloved phrases that became cherished by all who knew her–“I declare!” “Yes, indeed!” and “Stay as sweet as you are” were common exclamations that reflected her joyful spirit. She loved hosting family gatherings, especially during the holidays, and took great pride in cooking for those she loved. Her biscuits, macaroni and cheese, honeybun cake, and candied yams were staples at every gathering and will be fondly remembered as symbols of her care and devotion.
Lorna Bouldin is the devoted mother of Bernardo Jr. (deceased), Vincent (Letitia), John (Julia), and the Godmother of Candy Castille. She was preceded in death by her sister, Vivian and her beloved husband, Bernardo Bouldin, Sr. She is the cherished grandmother of Brad, Alexis, Chelsea, Issac, and Leah, and great-grandmother of Camryn. She also left to cherish her memory, cousin Barbara Gay, niece Ercelle Drayton, and a host of many other cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and strength. We know she is with the Lord now and heard Him say “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Condolences(19)-
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Rudolph Anderson says
November 11, 2024 at 11:12 amMy heartfelt condolences to the Bouldin Family. I will always remember her radiant smile and sense of humor.. she was a mother and teacher to all of us…the lessons we learned still direct us today.
I will truely miss you,
Rudolph Anderson Jr
Kal Alston says
November 12, 2024 at 10:12 amSending condolences to the family — As Chelsea’s doctoral advisor, I have heard much about the love and esteem she has for her beloved grandmother. I also have met her lovely parents and send them prayers for healing.
Dr. Kal Alston
Freddie Green says
November 12, 2024 at 2:52 pmI’m and sad to hear of the passing of Sister Bouldin and yet my heart feels glad because she is a Soldier of the Lord who has moved to that home not made by hand eternal into glory. My condolences to the family.
Freddie Green
Jeffrey Powell says
November 13, 2024 at 9:40 amOn Behalf of the Roanoke Alphas we send our Condolences to Brother Bouldin and his family on the passing of your beloved mother. My your memories of a life well lived support you in these challenging times.
Michaela Rice says
November 13, 2024 at 8:41 pmAs a close friend of her granddaughter, Chelsea, I have heard many stories of Lorna, and felt the love she shared with her family. Sending hugs and prayers to your family in this difficult time.
Michaela Rice
Kimberly M. Haynes says
November 16, 2024 at 12:57 pmDearest John and Vince,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your mother. She was a positive, kind, and sweet spirit that led by example in the Shiloh Baptist Church. I learned the meaning of a virtuous lady by watching her.
God Bless you and your family during this time of bereavement.
Kim Haynes
Kimberly M. Haynes says
November 16, 2024 at 12:58 pmDearest John and Vince,
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of your mother. She was a positive, kind, and sweet spirit that led by example in the Shiloh Baptist Church. I learned the meaning of a virtuous lady by watching her.
God Bless you and your family during this time of bereavement.
Mrs. Honorina Meditz says
November 14, 2024 at 10:43 amMy heart felt condolences to you Mr.Bouldin. Praying for your family.
Lorraine Farrow says
November 15, 2024 at 2:08 pmMy heartfelt condolences and prayers to the Mr Bouldin and family. I’m sorry I didn’t get to say goodbye to her gentle smile, and loving personality. I will not weep, but rejoice because I know she have gone to a much better place. Wait no more, God has called you home Momma Lorna.
Donna Hampton says
November 14, 2024 at 11:59 amTo Mr. Bouldin and family, sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. May God give the family strength and peace each day
Sandy McQuerrey says
November 14, 2024 at 2:36 pmMr. Bouldin,
You and your family are in my thoughts. I am very sorry for your loss and hope your memories bring you both comfort and peace.
Evelyn Simpkins Cafeteria Manager says
November 14, 2024 at 10:30 pmMr. Bouldin ,Our Condolence goes out to you and your family because we care, our heartfelt thoughts goes out to you today with more concern and sympathy then we could ever say Sending all our Love and Prayers to you and your family in your grieving time, your cafeteria staff Little Creek Elementary School 🙏🏾🌹❤️
Nan Hunter Joseph says
November 15, 2024 at 5:03 amMy condolences and prayers to the family of such a caring and kind person.
Mrs. Anthony says
November 15, 2024 at 9:43 amPlease accept my sincerest condolences during your family’s loss. May peace and comfort abide with you and your family through cherished memories.
The Spence Family says
November 15, 2024 at 10:06 amDeepest sympathy and prayers to the Bouldin Family at this difficult time. Ms. Lorna was a special lady and will be greatly missed.
Paula Robinson says
November 15, 2024 at 7:01 pmMy condolences to the entire Bouldin Family. Upon meeting Ms. Bouldin many years ago, I immediately saw a person with such a kind and loving spirit. Another Angel joins our Lord and Savior.
Ruth and Charles R. Hunt says
November 15, 2024 at 11:04 pmTo the family of Sister Lorna Bouldin,
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of Dear Sister Bouldin. She was a wonderful Sunday School Teacher, and will be remembered as a pleasant, kind spirit.
Donna McDaniel Strickler says
November 16, 2024 at 12:01 pmWhat a wonderful soul Lorna was. I had the pleasure of meeting her a couple of times. I know through Julia what a wonderful mother and grandmother she was. I know she will surely be missed to all that knew and loved her. She is home now💕
MaRhonda Carter says
November 16, 2024 at 3:41 pmMy deepest condolences to Vince, Letitia, Chelsea and family on the passing of Mrs. Bouldin. I had the pleasure of meeting her a few times and she had such a sweet presence about her. I pray you all find comfort in the beautiful memories you made with her and the wonderful legacy she leaves with you. You’re in my thoughts and prayers today and in the days to come.
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