Margaret Gittens Dabney

Obituary For Margaret Gittens Dabney

“Dr. Dabney was a pioneer in her endeavors to identify and teach children with a broad spectrum of abilities and talents who might otherwise go unrecognized. Without her, literally thousands of talented, primarily minority youngsters in Richmond and many surrounding counties would not have achieved to their fullest potential.” -Barbara Fuhrmann, nominator Dr. Margaret Dabney Day

Dr. Margaret Gittens Dabney made her graceful transition from this life to the next on February 3, 2025, at the remarkable age of 104. True to the spirit that defined her, she passed surrounded by her beloved family.

Born in 1920, Margaret was the only child of Alice Mead, a brilliant mathematician with a Master’s Degree from Columbia University, and Dr. William Gittens, a distinguished physician from Barbados who had come to the U.S. to earn his medical degree at Howard University. At the age of 15, she graduated early from high school and left home to pursue a brighter future at Wellesley College, becoming one of the early Black students to attend this prestigious institution.

Margaret’s arrival in Boston was a turning point. She was welcomed by a vibrant community of trailblazing Black students, and soon after, her life flourished—academically, socially, and personally. She met Bernardin Dabney, a brilliant and kind Latin student, who would become her partner in both life and their shared mission of making the world a better place. Together, they became a powerful duo in the academic and social spheres, excelling both individually and as a couple.

Their journey led them to Virginia State University, where Margaret and Bernardin’s careers took flight. Margaret became the Dean of the School of Education, and Bernardin was appointed Dean of the English Department. Together, they worked tirelessly to support and uplift the educational system, particularly for children from marginalized communities. Margaret was an unwavering advocate for public education, believing firmly in her personal motto that “when public education fails, democracy fails.” A statement that rings true with deep poignance today. But then, she was always both ahead of her time and timeless.

Her career was marked by significant achievements, including the founding of Richmond Community High School and Appomattox Regional Governor’s School, where she left an indelible mark on the education system. A tireless educator and consultant for the U.S. Department of Education, she worked to provide professional development to schools suffering under the weight of limited resources due to segregation and systemic inequality.

Margaret’s accolades include a Bachelor’s Degree from Boston University, Doctorate in Education from Vanderbilt/Peabody University, the Outstanding Women of Greater Richmond- Education Award, and the Lifetime Membership Award from the Virginia Association for Education of the Gifted. She was also honored with the Citizen of the Year Award (Oliver W. Hill Sr. Award) the Human Relations in Education Award (Virginia Education Association) and was conferred by the state of Virginia with Dr. Margaret Dabney Day. She held memberships in the Alpha Beta Boule, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, The Links, Petersburg Gourmet Club and founding committees of the Petersburg Symphony and Designer House.

And yet...despite the vast professional success she achieved, Margaret’s greatest joy was always her family. As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, her home was filled with love, laughter, and warmth. She opened her heart to the children of her friends, often taking them under her wing once their parents passed on and nurturing them as her own. There was nothing Margaret cherished more than gathering her family and friends around a beautifully set table, sharing great food and conversation. These moments took place in the home she cherished because she had worked with the architect to design it, so it was truly “her house.” It became an oasis and headquarters for her family. She and Bernardin are survived by their two daughters, Peggy and Anne; grandchildren Pall, Bernie and Lisa; great-grandchildren Daniel, Alexis, Donovan, Liam, Maia and two great-great grandchildren.

As a wife to Bernardin, she held a traditional place at the table, yet Margaret’s quiet strength was always felt. Her presence was commanding, yet graceful, and her legacy will ripple ever outward, touching lives far and wide.

Dr. Margaret Dabney’s light continues to shine through her descendants, her community, and the countless lives she touched. Her legacy of education, love, and service endures, and she will be forever remembered with gratitude and admiration.

Amen.

A memorial service to honor Dr. Dabney will be held February 21st at 2pm; The Chapel at Westminister Canterbury 1600 Westbrook Ave. Richmond, VA

In lieu of flowers, “In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Dr. Dabney’s memory to: Richmond Community High School (https://friendsofrchs.org/) and the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School, 512 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803.