Business Advocate Oliver Singleton Leaves a Legacy of Economic Development

Oliver Rodney Hunt Singleton of Richmond, formerly of Norfolk, Va, entered eternal rest April 13, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Vernice Singleton. He is survived by his wife, Rose Stith Singleton; children, Rachel, Hunt and Christine Singleton; brothers, Walter (Lucretia) and Warren (Jackie) of Chesapeake, VA; sister, Jean Ryles of Bronx, NY; a host of nieces, nephews, five sisters-in-law; three brothers-in-law, other relatives and friends.

Oliver accepted Christ at an early age and was an active member of St. John AME Church in Norfolk, Va until he left for the University of Virginia where he earned a BS in Philosophy and Comparative Government. While at the University of Virginia, he was the first African American inducted into the Z Society.

Oliver, also affectionally known as Rod and Rodney, was President of The Metropolitan Business League, member Executive Committee, Venture Richmond; former member Richmond City Council; former Chair Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority; Founding Board Member, Richmond Ambulance Authority; Former Trustee Richmond Retirement System and Virginia State Foundation and Former Director, Richmond Sportsbackers.

Oliver was named to Boomer Magazine’s 2010 Inaugural “It List” Richmonder’s Who Made a Difference; named by the United States Small Business Administration as the “Virginia Minority Business Champion of 2010”; presented the 2011 Economic Empowerment Award by the Richmond Branch NAACP; and appointed to three Small Business Advisory Commissions by two Virginia Governors. A significant portion of his career was spent in the Securities and Exchange industry.

Oliver was a devoted father who loved his family, friends, politics, Richmond and Norfolk, Va. He was an enthusiastic jazz fan.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Singleton Children’s College Fund at any Wells Fargo Bank.