We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Stuart Wilkinson, the museum’s beloved, longtime Facilities Manager. This is a devastating loss for us. Stuart joined the museum in 2001, before the move from Temple Beth-El to our current location in Shockoe Bottom and was hands-on in both the design and construction of the entire museum. His master carpentry skills are most notably seen in our Choral Synagogue which he co-constructed, but it is true to say that his fingerprints are on every inch of 2000 East Cary Street.
Beyond design and construction, Stuart was the Renaissance Man of the museum. If something broke—and something is always broken—Stuart could fix it. He knew where every light switch was, where every wire ran, and had the key for every lock the rest of us didn’t even know existed. He was our plumber, our carpenter, our mechanic, our electrician, our stagehand when we had events. Stuart was the engine that kept the VHM running for over two decades.
Most significantly, Stuart should be remembered as a kind man. A true Southern gentleman. Whether he was repairing a toilet, or rebuilding the museum’s boxcar in July, he did so warmly and with a smile, and often with a joke (it cost twenty-five cents to ride the elevator with him). He was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, and an adored member of the VHM family. The loss of his know-how and his spirit leaves a hole that cannot be filled. Stuart was a light in the world, and we share in the grief that his loved ones are feeling today. May his memory be for a blessing.
We will share details of Stuart’s memorial service when we have them.
