Beverly V. Chester

Beverly V. (Boykin) Chester, 88 of Worcester, passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2016 at Worcester Healthcare Center surrounded by her loving family. Beverly is survived by two sons, Richard Chester, Jr. of Belmont, MA and Keith Chester; a daughter, Joanne Chester; a sister, Earlena Yelverton and her husband Johnnie all of Worcester; six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and one great great grandchild; many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by two brothers, Charles and Joseph Boykin and two sisters, Emily Juanita Bracey and Hessey Dupree. Beverly was born in Worcester, a daughter of the late Spencer Marion and Rev. Emma Jane (Ross) Boykin and graduated from Commerce High School. She later received her certification and license in social work from Quinsigamond Community College.  Beverly worked as a social worker at the Henry Lee Willis Center formerly known as the Prospect House for 20 years before she retired in 1996.  She also worked part time as an election commissioner for the City of Worcester for 8 years.  Beverly previously worked for Denholm & McKay as an elevator operator for 16 years.  Beverly was a musically gifted, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother who filled our lives with laughter, joy, and informative conversations around education, history, politics, and community social issues. She was also an outspoken community activist during a time of social change and progress in the City of Worcester, who was very proud of her heritage as an African American woman. Being a youth leader for AME Zion Church for many years she encouraged many teenagers to be successful and to stay in school. She also helped her sister teach an arts and crafts class for neighborhood seniors at Prospect House. Beverly was a member of Belmont A.M.E Zion Church and was once a representative at church conferences. She enjoyed arts and crafts, politics and playing the piano.  Beverly sang in a gospel group alongside her friends and siblings where they would travel around the state performing. A Celebration of Life service for Beverly will be held on Thursday, July 21, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. in Belmont A.M.E Zion Church, 55 Illinois St., Worcester. Burial will follow at Hope Cemetery, Worcester.  A period of calling hours will be held on Thursday, July 21 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. in church prior to her service.  MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St., Worcester is assisting the family with arrangements.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to: Worcester Healthcare Center, 25 Oriol Drive, Worcester, MA. 01605.