Robert Elijah Lindsey

Robert Elijah "Eli" Lindsey was born October 21, 2003. He had just recently celebrated his 21st birthday before being taken from us far too soon on November 21, 2024. He was born in Richmond, Virginia to proud parents Robert "Bobby" Lindsey and Jaime (Graves) Lindsey. He joined not-much-older sister, Maya Raine, whom he adored and respected unceasingly. 

Elijah was adventurous with endless curiosity and limitless energy. He spent his childhood in Midlothian, VA. He attended Alberta Smith Elementary and Bailey Bridge Middle Schools until a family move, at which time he attended Tomahawk Creek Middle and Cosby High School - a member of the 2022 graduating class. He played soccer throughout his life on various club teams, including Richmond Kickers and Richmond Strikers, and he was a member of his middle and high school teams. He had just recently set off on his own when he moved to Rocketts Landing in Richmond. He was excited about being in the city and having new places to enjoy and explore. 

As a high school senior, Elijah began work in the pool industry under the guidance and care of Karen Whitton, with plans to one day have a business of his own. Elijah began work with Karen as her employee. However, she quickly became an integral part of his life, expanding her role from boss to godmother and, most importantly, friend. The Lindsey family is forever grateful to Karen for the wisdom and support she offered Elijah over the past three years.

Elijah was a kind soul and his patience and thoughtfulness were unsurpassed- he had a gift connecting with young children and older adults alike. He woke everyday with a determination to not be a burden to anyone. He was strong, independent, and courageous. And he was fun to be around - always bringing light and levity to every situation. Most importantly, he lived every day with a curiosity of others and a longing to build deeper connections with everyone he met. He had a strong understanding and acceptance of people and his desire was for all of us to share that with each other. He was a bright light in this sometimes dark world. His departure leaves a profound emptiness in our lives, yet we find comfort in the many memories and everlasting love that we shared. 

In addition to his parents and sister, Elijah is survived by loving grandparents Ron and Janet Graves of Fairmont, WV and Bonnie "Gran" Lindsey of Chesterfield, VA; as well as his uncle Jody Graves; his aunt Robin Lindsey, and his only first cousin Camden Rybak. Elijah is part of a large, extended family of many great aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Robert E. Lindsey, whose initials he carried in memory; and maternal great-grandparents Walter and Betty Jean Graves of Fairmont, WV and William "Bill" and Christine Stansberry of Morgantown, WV. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025 at 1pm at The Brandermill Church - 4500 Millridge Parkway, Midlothian, VA 23112. There will be a Celebration of Life gathering following the memorial service at Sunday Park in the Gardens Pavilion - 4604 Millridge Parkway, Midlothian, VA 23112. Funeral services are under the direction of Bennett & Barden Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc.