Joseph Donald Rozier, 81, was born in Richmond, Virginia on May 10, 1939, to the late Julia Brown
Rozier Hatcher and Jackson E. Rozier, Sr. He was proceeded in death by his brothers, Major General
Jackson E. Rozier, Jr. and Alfred R. Rozier. He was always called Donald by family and friends.
Following in the footsteps of his beloved grandparents, the late Carrie and Deacon Evander Rozier, he
accepted Christ and joined Sharon Baptist Church at an early edge.
Donald liked to reflect on his wonderful memories growing up in Richmond. He attended Richmond
Public Schools and graduated from Maggie L. Walker High School in 1957. Having benefited from
playing sports for the Police and Fire Department’s Boys Club, he became a member of the MLW
basketball team and lied to brag that his team won the State Championship in 1957. In high school, he
also enjoyed the fellowship of the Royal Knights. His love of sports led him to become a lifelong
supporter of Virginia Union University’s football and basketball programs. Donald earned his Bachelor
of Arts degree in Sociology from Virginia Union University and a Master’s in Social Work from Virginia
Commonwealth University in 1977.
He began his work career as a clerk for the Virginia ABC Board. After graduating from Virginia Union,
he became a social worker at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Medicine (formerly the
Medical College of Virginia). In 2003, he retired as a Medical Social Worker from McGuire Veterans
Administration Medical Center after 23 years of service. Following his retirement, he worked part-time
for the Richmond Community Center.
In 1966, he married Oneida Felton and they enjoyed 54 years of devotion to each other. As a couple, the
loved to travel to destinations in the United States, the Caribbean, and Europe. Donald enjoyed Ebenezer
Baptist Church and his church family. Over the years, he served as a member of the Music Council,
Worship Committee, Security Ministry, Finance Ministry, and the Trustee Ministry. He also served a
term as Chairman of the Nominating Committee, as well as a member of the By-Laws Committee.
One of the greatest joys of his life was his Life Membership in his beloved Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity,
Inc. He also enjoyed the fellowship of the Theban Beneficial Club and Club 533, Inc.
Donald loved his family and was proud of the achievements of his brothers. He was especially proud of
his “little brother”, Harold Jordan, who he met as a participant in the Big Brothers of America program.
He often spoke with immense pride in their relationship and lasting friendship. His adopted family of
cherished friends who he met along the way, were with him during his times of joy and during the ordeal
of his illness. For this, he was very grateful.
