Michael Keith Herndon received his healing and entered eternal rest on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 5:16 a.m. at the Carilion New River Valley Medical Center, Christiansburg, VA. He was born in Farmville, VA on September 15, 1964. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Charles E. Herndon, Sr., and Ernestine Watkins Herndon.

Michael graduated from Prince Edward County High School. Knowing his mother and aunt’s commitment to and support of education, Michael continued his education at Howard University earning both a B.A. in Communication (1984) and an M.A. in Student
Development (1986). After returning to Farmville, Michael accepted a position at Longwood
College (now University) as a Resident Education Coordinator (REC) he remained in this position from 1989 – 1995. In 1995, Michael was accepted into the Higher Education and Student Affairs program and in 2001 ten days after his oldest son was born, Michael completed his defense earning his Ph.D. As a life-long learner, in 2023 Michael continued his education and earned a master’s in divinity.

Michael was employed in the Division of Enrollment Management within the Office of the University Registrar at Virginia Tech as director of summer and winter sessions from 2008 until his passing. He was instrumental in the development and implementation of Virginia Tech’s first Winter Session and the Summer Start program, formerly known as Summer Academy. Prior to joining Enrollment Management, he spent more than a decade in the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, where he served as director of undergraduate studies from 1997-2008. His connection to the department began in 1995, when he joined Virginia Tech as a graduate assistant. He later served as an academic advisor from 1997-2001 before being named assistant director. In 2002, he was promoted to director and assistant professor
(non-tenure track), a role he held until 2008.

Everywhere Michael lived he was a part of the community. He was a member of the NAACP for 40 years, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. for 31 years, and was the youngest member of the Prince Edward County school board from 1991-1995. Additionally, he was a part of the Boy Scouts of America from 2012 until his passing and volunteered at Radford University’s Baptist Collegiate Ministry.

Michael was baptized at 9 years old at Race Street Baptist Church. He would speak about attending morning worship services with his mother and numerous afternoon programs at Race Street and other churches in the surrounding community. At his mother’s insistence, Michael began piano lessons and once his piano teacher deemed him ready, he started playing for church choirs in the community. He continued playing for choirs, at programs, funerals,
and weddings in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. up until his passing.

Michael continued his Christian walk each day by reading his Bible, praying, praising, and sharing a deep relationship with the Lord. He often recalled a quote he learned from a deceased minister and family friend, Mrs. Tricia Sowell, “Put the word of God in you before you need it, so that when you need it you will have it and won’t have to go searching for it.”
Michael and his family attended church services and made life-long friends at St. Paul AME (Blacksburg, VA), Christian Growth Center (Christiansburg, VA), and most recently St. Paul UMC (Roanoke, VA).

Michael leaves to cherish his memory in his beloved wife of 28 years, Jean, and their two sons, Kyle and Sean. His sister, Charlotte Womack and his brothers, Charles Jr. (Wilma) and David Woodson, a devoted god-sister, Angelia Farmer, and former sister-in-law, Carrie Herndon. Michael was adored and loved by his nieces and nephews, Tracy DeBeary, Shabie
Anouar, Sonya Woodson, Alma Spragues, DeWayne Herndon, Jon Wilson, and David Woodson, Jr.

He will also be remembered by Jean’s parents, Deacon Simuel (Les) and Betty Booker, her siblings, Demetria Saunders (Robert), Simuel Jr. (Theresa) and Anthony. Michael never considered them as in-laws but “bonus” parents, sisters, and brothers. Michael was deeply loved by his extended family to include his great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, and other extended family members. Michael had numerous lifelong friends including Novey Wiley and
Dr. Benjamin and Rev. Carolyn Dixon.

Michael was a beautiful representation of being the hands and feet of Christ. He loved and cared for others above himself and was able to brighten any room with his infectious personality and warmth. He rarely turned down anyone who asked for a favor or assistance. He was beloved by his students, many of whom continued to stay in touch with him years after
their graduation. He will be missed by family, friends, and all who knew him. Michael’s passing leaves a
hole in our family which can never be filled, but as he always said…“All is Well”