Hall of Fame | My Site

The purpose of this section is to highlight family members who have and continue to contribute and show an excellence in contributing to the 40+ years of successful family reunions we have witnessed. “Being able to rejoice with your family in the beautiful land of life, has proven to be extremely beneficial in learning who you are and where you came from.

- Albert Einstein

The family members listed below have set an example to others as to how a strong functioning family organization should be. This author has witnessed first-hand exactly how to build and show love towards one another. From the day I witnessed Mr. Meaco Woodson driving up to a family function in Providence Forge, VA decades ago distributing home-grown watermelons to family members to the $1000 Emma Woodson Hill Scholarship Fund donation made by Stanley A. Tyler in 2023, those and hundreds of other large and small acts of love have been exhibited by our cousins listed in this tab titled "Hall of Fame". On behalf of our thousands of family members worldwide, we thank you.

Jimmy L. West, Jr.

Chairman Emeritus/Treasurer

What Have I Done for My Family Today?

I. Have I Kept In Touch?

Have I written, called or visited an elder or older member of my family,

especially one who is infirm, or housebound?

Have I sent a thank you note to a family member who has shown

kindness for me or a member of my family?

Have I tried to know and communicate with a branch of

the family with which I am not very familiar.

Have I encouraged and/or assisted my young children in doing any of the above?

• Do they know who our family Elders are?

• Are they aware of uncles, aunts, cousins who do not live

in the immediate area?

• Are they aware of and interact with relatives in the area?

II. How Have I Contributed to Past or Future Reunions in Any of the Following Ways?

Suggest a reunion theme?
Volunteer for a committee or assist with a reunion activity?
Offering to be available at the next reunion to assist as needed?

(Registration desk, hospitality services, ushers, photographer, etc.?)

Have I sent some memorabilia to “National Executive Committee” for the Archives?
Have I paid my seed money fee for the current year?
Have I donated to the Emma Woodson Hill Memorial Scholarship Award Fund?

III. How Have I Contributed to the Family Website or periodic newsletter?

Have I notified the National Executive Committee of events and activities occurring in my immediate family?

Have I written an article for the newsletter?
Have I interviewed an older family member of my immediate

or extended family for the Oral History Archives?

Have I suggested new areas of information to be covered in the newsletter?
Have I sent a change of address, telephone number or e-mail to the National Executive Committee?

Whatever you do, it is a gift to your family.

What Have I Done For My Family Today?

Theodore “Ted” Herman Meekins of New York was a devoted family member and civic leader. He attended nearly every family reunion, traveling by Amtrak even as his health declined. Ted’s dedication extended beyond family to his impactful political work in New York City, reflecting his commitment and many talents. Thank you.
1931–2018

Ronald and Toni Meekins of Arizona are invaluable to our family reunions. Ron’s father, Alvin, set a lasting example of extended family involvement that Ron continues to uphold. Ron and Toni are always available when support is needed. Together, they contribute significantly to the Emma Woodson Hill Memorial Scholarship Award Committee, with Toni serving as chairwoman. Despite our East Coast–based reunions, they consistently make the trip to be with family. Ron’s service as Executive Committee Chaplain helps set a strong moral tone for our organization. We always look forward to spending time with this remarkable couple. Thank you.

Laura Meekins Miles was born in Newport News, Virginia, and spent most of her life in Richmond. Long before personal computers, she and her brother, Earl Wesley Meekins, traveled to courthouses researching and collecting family genealogy—a commitment she continued as technology evolved. Through her careful documentation and dedication to preserving family records, she helped safeguard our shared history for future generations. She was also instrumental in founding, organizing, and leading the Richmond Family Reunion Chapter, guiding its efforts and strengthening family connections for many years. Her leadership, vision, and devotion to family history are key reasons our reunions continue today.

1937–2020

Paul and Karen Woodson of Maryland have supported the DC Committee since the 1990s, generously opening their home and grounds to host a highly successful cookout and committee meetings. They continue to provide steadfast support for our family reunion and scholarship fundraising efforts. Thank you.

James (Bubba) Lemco Meekins, Jr., of Virginia, has played a key role in sustaining our family’s ability to remain connected through reunions and related gatherings. Over the past five years, he has organized multiple large-scale cookouts at a James City County park, each attended by hundreds of family members who are descendants of his father, James Lemco Meekins, Sr., the father of eleven children. His efforts have brought together multiple generations of our family. Thank you.

Linda Harris Winters of New Jersey has been a steadfast supporter from the beginning. In her roles as Philadelphia Chairwoman and committee member, she consistently contributes to and supports our initiatives. Equally noteworthy is the enduring love and care she demonstrated for her late mother, I. Ophelia Meekins Harris, setting a meaningful example of respect for our elders. Even as her mother lived beyond 100 years of age, Linda ensured she remained included in family gatherings—a truly admirable commitment. Linda also continues to support the organization through her regular participation in our monthly “Cousins Fun Night” video sessions. Thank you.

Earl Wesley Meekins was a vital supporter in the early years of our family reunions. He and his wife, Aurelia, hosted multiple events at their Providence Forge, Virginia home. He played a major role in fundraising and served as our first family video genealogist. Along with his sister, Laura Meekins Miles, he traveled extensively to gather genealogical information that became the foundation of our 10,000‑plus Ancestry.com file (The Laura Meekins Miles Project). He was also an original member of the Richmond Family Reunion Committee, frequently opening his home for meetings and gatherings. Thank you.

James A. Meekins of New Jersey and Maryland has truly been there for us from the very beginning. Thanks to his mother, Mary Lucy Meekins Reynolds, our New Jersey Meekins were connected with our Virginia relatives as far back as the 1960s. Jim learned from her that family comes first, and he has carried those values with him throughout his life. We see it in the way he stepped up as an original DC Chapter member and consistently did whatever was needed to make our cookouts, fundraisers, and family reunions successful. As a master chef, Jim has generously given his time and talent, often spending long hours preparing meals—once even starting on the grill at 6:00 a.m. to be sure everything was ready for our reunion. Beyond his hands-on help, he has also reached out time and again with unexpected financial support when it was needed most. Like the New Jersey Forchion/Chinn/Meekins cousins he grew up with, Jim continues—just as his mother did—to remind us how important it is to show up, stay connected, and come together as family. Thank you.
1938 - 2024

Osa F. Meekins, Jr., of New Jersey, has demonstrated distinguished leadership. As Chairman of the Philadelphia Chapter in the 1980s, he established a model of effective organization and fundraising that was subsequently adopted by the DC, Richmond, and New York chapters. He continues to be an active and valued supporter of our family reunions. Thank you.

Mary Lucy Meekins Reynolds, born in New Kent, Virginia, was one of nine children of Osie B. Meekins. She demonstrated determination and resilience throughout her life, notably becoming a train yard flag person in the 1940s—a role rarely held by women, particularly Black women, at that time. She also played a key role in reconnecting Meekins family members in New Kent, Virginia, and South Jersey after decades of separation.

1919–2002

Brenda Stevens West, wife of James, has been an integral part of all five family reunions hosted by the DC chapter. She has provided catering for events at their home, Allen Pond Park, Watkins Park, and Cabin John Group Park—her homemade potato salad is a favorite at every gathering. A committee member since the early 1990s, she also played a key role in developing the successful children’s activities at the 2022 family reunion. Thank you.

Gregory J. Chinn’s contributions to our family reunions have been invaluable. As a professional photographer, he has documented our reunions and other family events with exceptional dedication over many years. His work provides a lasting visual record for future generations and reflects his unwavering commitment to our family. We also deeply respect the care and devotion he showed to his late mother, Alice Meekins Chinn. Thank you.

Emma Woodson Hill exemplified wisdom and a deep commitment to education, values she embraced early in life. Her dedication is reflected in the continued academic achievements of her daughter and granddaughters. She also devoted significant time to researching her family’s heritage, developing expertise in genealogy through her studies at Temple University. Above all, she was a kind and devoted person who cared deeply for her family.
1926–2003

Brian E. West of Virginia was not only a gentle giant physically but was huge when it came to trying to maintain the Richmond Chapter. By that, we mean managing the chapter, holding fundraising events, hosting family reunions (as Chairman), performing physically such as driving a group of family on a tour of New Kent, VA, shuttling family members during reunions and much more. Thank you.
1969-2022

Eric W. Lemons, Sr. and his wife, Frances Ann Christian Lemons, have been valued contributors since the 1980s. Like Eric’s sister Alease, Eric has consistently stepped forward to support and strengthen our organization’s efforts. It is rare to see couples work together with such commitment and reliability. Both willingly take on responsibilities as needed, and Ann’s leadership in the operation of the Richmond Chapter played an important role in the success of multiple family reunions. We are grateful for their continued service.

Alice Woodson Swann of Pennsylvania was a gifted individual who shared her talents to bring joy and connection to her family. A skilled puppeteer, she delighted younger relatives at family reunions and used her abilities to enrich extended family gatherings. She remained a supportive and engaged presence through her final appearance at the 2017 family reunion.
1928–2017

Mr. Woodson was a dedicated advocate for family unity. His values and insights were passed on to his children—Gloria, Meaco Bey, and William, Sr.—who continue to support these efforts.

1909–2007

Rhonda Hill-Wilson of Pennsylvania, daughter of Emma Woodson Hill, exemplifies the lasting impact of parental guidance. Following her mother’s example, she has demonstrated talent and perseverance in overcoming professional challenges throughout her career in law. She continues to apply her expertise and resources to strengthen our family reunion operations and to support the family in many other meaningful ways.

We are extremely thankful for his love and everlasting moral and financial support of our non-profit organization and just as thankful that his wife Dr. Velvie continues that tradition. Thank you both.

Leslie has been an extremely active and supportive both physically and financially for more than three decades. First as a member of the DC Chapter and now, Vice Chairwoman of our National Executive Committee, she brings a wealth of knowledge, especially in the field of finance that is beneficial to our family members in numerous ways. Her membership as a part of our Richard Thomas Forchion Humanitarian Award Committee is extremely valuable. She also oversaw hosting our first "Cousins" cruise in 2024 and we look forward to her hosting this year's [2026] second cruise. Thank You.

Alan F. Garcia, the son of Bertha Williams and Gerard Garcia, served as chair of the inaugural New York Family Reunion Committee Chapter. The 2001 reunion in New York remains especially memorable due to the committee’s excellent leadership and hospitality under Alan’s guidance. He participated in nearly every reunion until his passing in 2018.

Because his mother relocated from New Kent, Virginia, to New York before his birth, Alan had limited familiarity with his Williams family roots in New Kent. As a result, he made it a personal goal at each reunion to connect with direct Williams descendants. During reunions held in Virginia, he visited with Inez and Willie Ann Bailey, daughters of Annie E. Williams.

Following his military service, Alan pursued a career in New York City law enforcement, later serving as a police detective before retiring and relocating to Florida. He was inseparable from his beloved wife, Francine, whose partnership and support were evident to all who knew them. In retirement, Alan remained deeply engaged in community service through the Kiwanis Club and was active in the Florida Democratic Party, particularly during the election period leading to the presidency of Barack Obama.

Through his dedication, service, and commitment, Alan shared his talents not only with his family, but also with his community and country.

1943–2018

Frances Lemons Watkins was born in New Kent County, Virginia, and spent her adult life in Brooklyn, NY as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great‑grandmother. Despite the distance, she remained deeply connected to her New Kent family and played a key role in establishing and sustaining our family reunions, ensuring they were planned years in advance. Throughout her life, she generously supported family members and attended nearly every reunion, including her final one in Williamsburg, VA in 2023. Thank you, Cousin.
1942–2024

Mary Lucy Meredith of Virginia, the great‑granddaughter of Sally Earves, was a highly accomplished and dedicated individual. Her achievements included service as a high school student council member and Secretary of the Junior Conference League, as well as receiving scholarship offers from Virginia Union University, Durham College, Tuskegee Institute, and Morehouse College. She was a graduate of Smith‑Madden Business College and J. Sargent Reynolds Community College with a concentration in Business Administration and completed the Peoples Comprehensive Income Tax School with honors.

Ms. Meredith also served as a substitute teacher for second‑ and third‑grade students in art, English, and mathematics at Carver Elementary School in Richmond, Virginia. Her professional background included training at U.S. Army Fort Lee in government contract preparation, work as a real estate consultant, service on the Richmond Board of Elections, and credentials as a notary public and member of the Board of Realtors. She was also a highly skilled and respected genealogist.

Her extensive knowledge of family history and exceptional memory were instrumental in expanding and strengthening our documented genealogy database. Through careful research, identification, and verification of family records, she made lasting contributions that continue to benefit future generations. As a valued member of the Richmond, Virginia family reunion chapter, she generously shared her expertise in support of the committee and its work. Her impact was significant, and she is deeply missed.

1932–2020

4

Marla D. Woodson, daughter of Paul, is a valued and dedicated contributor to our organization. She generously shares her time and technical expertise, particularly in website hosting and online communications. Along with her brother, Travis, Marla is consistently responsive and dependable whenever support is needed. Her skills play a vital role in helping us effectively communicate with family members around the world. We are sincerely grateful for her contributions.

Lora J. Neal of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the great-granddaughter of Laura Meekins, has been a dedicated participant in nearly all of our reunions and is a founding member of both the National Executive Committee and the Philadelphia Committee. She continues to serve actively on the Executive Committee.

Ms. Neal brings a positive and engaging presence to all meetings and activities, including family reunions and fundraising events. She consistently carries out her responsibilities with commitment and without hesitation. Notably, she is deeply invested in encouraging the involvement of her immediate family in reunion activities. Even during her mother’s funeral repast, she took the initiative to introduce and connect family members. She remains steadfast in her efforts to promote family participation.

Thank you.

Preston L. Forchion, Sr., of New Jersey, son of Bernice Meekins Forchion and William D. Forchion, Jr., is a pillar of strength and devotion to family. A father of three, he consistently emphasizes the importance of family, sharing his God-given singing voice with relatives, friends, and the wider community. Our family has been especially blessed by his music at both joyful gatherings and solemn occasions. Beyond his voice, his greatest contributions include encouraging family involvement and offering generous financial and hands-on support to our family activities. Thank you.

Melanie N. West of North Carolina, daughter of Reatha West and granddaughter of Elsie Meekins West, has attended every family reunion since the first was held. As a mother, she has continued this tradition by bringing her daughter, Micala, who is now building the same early connections with extended family. Since 2008, Melanie has served as a member of the National Executive Committee and the Richmond, VA Chapter, contributing to the planning and hosting of family reunions, fundraising efforts, and other organizational initiatives.

Detrel M. Howell, daughter of Helen Woodson Howell of New York, continues to provide strong leadership and meaningful support. In addition to her family commitments, she remains actively engaged in a range of professional and community endeavors. Her contributions have been recognized through honors such as being acknowledged as a veteran at a New York Mets baseball game and receiving an Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarianism from The Global International Alliance University in June 2023. Along with her other postsecondary academic achievements, these honors reflect her dedication to service. As Chairwoman of the National Executive Committee, she brings valuable expertise and commitment that benefit our extended family and organization.

Donean Chinn Parker of New Jersey represents the “Third Generation of Meekins,” a title fitting for the many South Jersey Meekins that descended from Osa Bell Meekins and his wife, Ellen S. Lawrence of New Kent County, Virginia. For more than 25 years, she has led and supported family gatherings, working to help relatives—especially younger members—connect with one another. Despite challenges and limited support, she continues to persevere. Thank you.

Vincent Keith Forchion of Louisiana remains closely connected to his South Jersey cousins, regularly attending East Coast family gatherings despite the distance. As the son of our family’s renowned humanitarian, Richard Thomas Forchion, his strong presence and support are no surprise. Like his father, Vincent’s commitment to our organizations stands out, and we are grateful for his love, support, and reliability.

Shirley McCoy Goldin of Ontario, Canada, a great-granddaughter of Harriet H. Meekins, brings valuable global experience and a strong commitment to the success of our family organization. Her dedication to education is exemplary. A former English teacher in Russia, she actively encourages her teenage family members to pursue higher education, whether through college or skilled trades. Her ongoing annual contributions to the Emma Woodson Hill Memorial Scholarship underscore the importance she places on educational opportunity and youth engagement. She has also made additional scholarship donations in memory of deceased family members, including Alan F. Garcia, Brian E. West, Wayne Chinn, and Mary Meredith. Contributions such as Shirley’s are essential to the continued vitality and success of our organization. Thank you.

Florence Alease Lemons Christian of Virginia is one of five children of Virginia Coles and Lemmie W. B. Lemons. Since the 1960s, she has played a key role in organizing family gatherings and continues to contribute her time and financial support to sustain this tradition.

David Allen Barker of Buffalo, NY is cherished for his dedication to attending and encouraging his immediate family to participate in our family reunions. Despite the long distance, he emphasizes the importance of staying connected and ensures his family also contributes financially.

Helen, Shirley, Angela, and Patrice Roper of New York exemplify the enduring strength of family and continuity. Helen Danials Roper established a lasting legacy by introducing her daughters, Shirley and Angela, to the earliest family reunions, setting a standard of engagement and leadership by example. Shirley continued this commitment by bringing her daughter, Patrice, who has since carried the tradition forward with her own family. Angela has remained connected whenever possible. What began as Helen’s simple yet intentional act of involvement grew into a multigenerational legacy that helped shape the culture, stability, and success of our organization. Her influence fostered connection, belonging, and sustained participation across generations. This family’s ongoing support reflects the meaningful foundation Helen helped build. Helen was the granddaughter of Annie Lee Meekins.

Thank you.

Larry D. Woodson of Virginia is a dedicated supporter of our nonprofit organization and a strong advocate for advancing our scholarship initiatives. The scholarship award is named in honor of his aunt, Emma Woodson Hill of Pennsylvania, whose influence played a pivotal role in his educational journey. While Larry was in high school, she encouraged him to pursue higher education and ensured that he enrolled at Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia. He went on to earn a degree there, an achievement that significantly enriched his life and continues to inspire this award’s mission.

Merriel L. Forchion, Sr., of New Jersey, son of Bernice Meekins Forchion and William D. Forchion, Jr., is a highly respected member of the Forchion brothers of New Jersey. A quiet yet decisive leader, he consistently takes initiative to ensure that family reunion efforts are successful, providing both strategic guidance and tangible support when needed. His leadership is marked by reliability, generosity, and a strong sense of responsibility to the family as a whole.

Merriel is also deeply committed to developing future generations, actively encouraging younger family members to participate in reunion planning and to engage in genealogy research to preserve the family’s history. In addition, he exemplifies integrity and unity through the respect and loyalty he demonstrates toward his brothers, especially Richard. His steady leadership and values serve as a positive and lasting influence on our extended family, particularly for younger generations.

Richard T. Forchion of New Jersey is a devoted family man and steadfast supporter of our organization. A retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, he has generously shared his experiences for the benefit of our community. The son of Bernice Meekins Forchion and William D. Forchion, Jr., he and his four brothers (one deceased) exemplify the strength and loyalty of family bonds. During periods of health challenges, his brothers and others have consistently stood by him—a testament to the respect and affection he has earned. He continues to support our family reunion organization with enthusiasm and generosity, both personally and financially. Thank you.

Gloria Woodson Bassett of Virginia, daughter of Maceo and Supfronia Woodson, was instilled at an early age with the importance of family through her parents’ exemplary leadership. Together with her siblings, including William, Sr., and Meaco Bey, she was raised to value familial connection and unity, particularly through family reunions. Throughout the years, Gloria has provided steadfast support for our activities and has actively encouraged financial contributions from fellow cousins, especially in support of the Emma Woodson Hill Memorial Scholarship Fund. We extend our sincere appreciation.