Voice of Legacy: Virginia Conway
A Life of Faith, Family and Freedom 

Interviewed by Beth Carlson, DFC Treasurer

________________________________________________________________

Virginia Conway’s story is one of resilience, devotion, and quiet strength — from her roots in Alabama to nearly five decades of service and leadership in the Berkshires. A devoted member of Macedonia Baptist Church and steadfast supporter of the Du Bois Freedom Center, Virginia reminds us that community, courage, and faith are the true foundations of freedom.

Faith, Family, and the Journey North

Born in Alabama, I’m one of eleven children — ten of us still living today. Most of us were born at home with midwives; the last four were hospital births. My family remains mostly in Alabama, but in 1977 — forty-eight years ago — I moved to the Berkshires. My husband, Charles Conway, came first after his brothers found work here. I followed soon after, bringing our three daughters — Sharon, Charlene, and Marian. The Conaway brothers (they spell it differently; “someone dropped an ‘a’ somewhere,” I always say) were married to Esther Dozier’s sisters, Maddie and Pearlie. We were all close — people thought we were sisters.

Faith and Leadership

When we first arrived, we attended Macedonia Baptist Church, but I was drawn to the spirit and warmth of the Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church. Reverend Esther Dozier had been an exhorter under Reverend John Parron. After he relocated, she was ordained — the first woman pastor of Clinton A.M.E. Zion Church. I grew very close to Esther. Whatever she asked me to do, I would try to do it. I served as secretary, treasurer, and choir director. The spiritual connection there meant a great deal to me.

Work and Service

I worked at Becton Dickinson (BD) for forty-five years — starting as a machine operator, then becoming a trainer, and later a supervisor. In 2009, I earned my associate degree from Berkshire Community College. I retired from BD on September 1, 2022, but I still work part-time at H&R Block. I enjoy it — it keeps me active, and I find the work fun. I also volunteer with Multi-Cultural Bridge, helping wherever I’m needed — assisting with activities, sharing information about community programs, and supporting the youth summer program for kids aged 5 to 17. We train young people to be leaders and to prepare for life in the workplace and in society. At Macedonia Baptist Church, I serve as secretary and often share news from Bridge and the Du Bois Freedom Center with the congregation. I also represent both organizations on the Du Bois Legacy Committee.

Growing Up in the Segregated South

I grew up in the segregated South, where the Black school had no gym, no lunchroom — and no books. Parents bought what they could, and we shared them, studying at each other’s homes. When I was in eighth grade, the white school received new books and desks; we got the old ones. After Dr. King was assassinated, schools were integrated. The first year was hard — tension, anger, and even violence. Some white families sent their children to private schools. In classrooms, we sat apart — white on one side, Black on the other. By the second year, things began to change. Teachers started mixing where we sat. Slowly, we learned how to be together. 

We were always taught: treat others the way you want to be treated. Stand up for yourself — but not to the point of losing your peace.

Why the Du Bois Freedom Center Matters

When I hear the word Freedom, I think of the Du Bois Freedom Center. Everywhere in Great Barrington, almost everything is owned by white people. The Center is something we can call our own — a place named for a Black man. I never understood how someone could hate another person just for the color of their skin. I don’t hate people — certainly not for that reason. When the Center opens, I know I’ll feel a sense of welcome as soon as I walk through the door. 

W.E.B. Du Bois understood us — the soul of Black people, our struggles, our strength. He didn’t hold back from telling the truth.

The spiritual side of the Center matters deeply to me. Being in the church, preserving it — that means a lot. Reverend Dozier fought so hard to have the space recognized and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. She had a powerful connection to Du Bois. We used to pack the church during events in his honor — so full we had to add chairs in the aisles.

I believe the spirit of Du Bois truly moved through Esther Dozier. For me, the Center represents that living legacy — and I’ll continue to support it in every way I can.

With Gratitude

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Virginia Conway for her unwavering commitment to the Du Bois Freedom Center, and for a lifetime of service grounded in faith, family, and community.
Her generosity, leadership, and voice have strengthened our mission to preserve the legacy of W.E.B. Du Bois and to nurture the spirit of freedom that continues to guide our work. Virginia reminds us that history lives through those who keep it alive — in action, in service, and in love for others.

“With gratitude to Virginia Conway — for her decades of service, faith, and community leadership that continue to inspire the Du Bois Freedom Center’s mission.” — Dr. John D. Lloyd, Interim Executive Director of the Du Bois Freedom Center