Christine Olivia Al-Amin

She leaves to mourn 2 devoted sons: Colby Maurice Sydnor, US Air Force (reserved) (Yvonne) and Omar Salim, Richmond Fire fighter, (Lishaundra): 7 grandchildren, Lelani Sydnor, Markus Sydnor and Isabelle Sydnor, Aniya Salim, Dominick Salim, Amelya Salim and Amia Salim. 2 brothers, Adolph Shelman, Ralph W. Shelman, 3 sisters Kathleen Washington, Barbara Buster and Alice Blake. Along with a host of relatives and friends.

Chris graduated from Armstrong High School and continued her education at St.Paul’s College – Lawrenceville Va and later at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond Va. She retired from Magellan Health Services in 2014 after 25 years of service.

Chris was an active member of St. James’ Platinum Speakers Toastmasters where she achieved many distinctions including DTM or Distinguished Toastmaster. As a toastmaster she earned the Excellence In Leadership Award, The Distinguished Toastmaster Award, was voted and designated 2012 Toastmaster of the Year. Chris served in the several top leadership positions for District 66 (Great Virginia Area) and was elected as District Governor and lead her District 66, 125 groups to Distinguished Status in the world. Chris also spoke on the Toastmaster’s World Stage as a District Governor in Toronto Canada.

Chris accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at the early age of 7. She was baptized and joined the Holy Trinity Church where she was an active member of the youth choir and Sunday School. Chris taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. Throughout her adult life, Chris has been active in church organizations. Chris joined St James Baptist Church in 2004 and remained an active member of St. James Baptist Church until her illness. Even during her illness Chris was active in many church organizations and activities: Life Everlasting (member and officer); George Smith Sanctuary Choir (member and officer). Sunday School (member and teacher) Chris served as director of Vacation Bible School for several years and served as mentor to other directors.

On January 20, 2019, Chris was installed and consecrated as a member of the Deaconess Board where she was an active member and also served in the officer role. One of her major accomplishments was to serve as president of the Senior Ministry and Editor of the “Friends of Life newsletter. Chris enjoyed working with the senior ministry and prior to Covid they planned and executed several activities including a trip to The Bible Museum in Washington DC. Chris loved the Lord and when her illness no longer allowed her the opportunity to gather at the house of God, Chris had morning devotional time with God. When possible she also attended the weekly Wednesday noonday bible study.

Favorite Scripture: Psalm 19:10

“Let the words of my mouth. And the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight O LORD, my strength and redeemer.”

The family will receive friends Wednesday, June 4 from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Ave, Richmond, VA where a funeral service will be held Saturday, June 7 at 1 P.M. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.