Whether in a classroom or on the track, Harold Thomas Green Sr. pursued excellence throughout his life. The longtime educator and competitive runner, who influenced generations of Richmond students and competed internationally well into his later years, died last week at the age of 96.

“Mr. Green was a good man, he always looked out for me,” said his wife, Lucille Green. “I had a good life, and I’m thankful that I had it.”

A native of Essex County, Green moved to Richmond in 1945 to continue his education. He ran track at Armstrong High School and later at the University of Richmond. He earned degrees from Virginia Union University and Virginia State University, completing a master’s in science at VSU in 1971.

Green began his teaching career at Jackson P. Burley High School in Charlottesville. In 1960, he returned to Richmond, where he taught earth science, biology and chemistry at Maggie Walker and John Marshall high schools. He also taught at John Tyler Community College before retiring from education in the 1980s.

His athletic career paralleled his work as an educator. Green competed as a sprinter and hurdler into his later life. His international meets took him and his family to Germany, Sweden, Alaska, Canada and Australia, where he earned gold and silver medals before an injury led him to retire from competition.

Despite his achievements, Green remained humble. 

“As far as he was concerned, he did not want to be boastful and he wasn’t,” said Green, who described her husband as a quiet and reserved man who only discussed his accomplishments when asked.

Faith was also a constant in his life. He was baptized at New Liberty Baptist Church, his mother’s congregation, and remained connected to the church throughout his life. He and his wife were married for more than 70 years and raised three children.

Green was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Green and Eleanor Green Bundy, and his sister, Mary. He is survived by his wife, Lucille; sons, Harold Thomas Green Jr. and Terone; a daughter, Denita; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

A funeral service will not be held, but plans for a memorial are in development.