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Virginia Smith Obituary
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Virginia was the cherished daughter of Sharon Sholan and the late Gerard Sholan Sr. Her loving spirit extended to her devoted husband, Ralph Smith, with whom she shared countless treasured moments. She was a proud and adoring mother to Brittany Marie Jolliff and Timothy Wayne Vaughan Jr., and her love knew no bounds when it came to her three grandchildren, Holly Marie Paulk, Timmy Wayne Vaughan III, and Billy Jameson Vaughan. Virginia's brothers, Brian J. Sholan and Gerard P. Sholan Jr., will fondly remember their sister's unwavering support and infectious smile.
For over three decades, Virginia dedicated her life to nurturing young minds as a preschool teacher. Her passion for education and her innate ability to connect with children made her a beloved figure in the classroom. Virginia's commitment to her work was paralleled only by her love for her family and her interests, which brought additional joy to her life.
Virginia was an avid reader who found joy in books and had a lifelong love for all things Disney. Her love for her grandkids was unparalleled, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
As we bid farewell to Virginia Marie Smith, we celebrate a life lived with boundless love and an open heart. Her legacy of kindness, dedication to her family, and passion for teaching will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Virginia's memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared by her loved ones and the countless lives she touched.
Online condolences can be made at www.lanier.care.
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Lanier Funeral and Cremation Services, 717 Griffin Road Lakeland, FL 33805, (863) 687-3996
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Virginia Marie Smith, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
6 Entries
Sylvia Stewart
August 25, 2025
I worked with Virginia at Lighthouse for 12 years, and can't believe she left us, but I know she's so much better off than we are. She always had a smile on her face and made you smile with her big hugs. She was such a blessing in my life; as well as, everyone that she touched, I'm certain. She will certainly be missed, but we'll see her again and I'm counting on that!
Rebecca
August 22, 2025
May you rest forever in the loving arms of our savior.
Fabianne Dilbeck
August 21, 2025
Virginia could make you smile even on the worst of days. We worked together for 15 years and she was a friend and a true Blessing. Virginia just had a gift of loving people and making them feel special. She loved children and they adored her back as was evident in her preschool classroom. She loved her family with her whole heart, I simply can't imagine this world without her and her bigger than life personality.
Virginia You Are Loved and Missed ,
Fabianne Dilbeck
Dwain & Missi
August 20, 2025
Dwain & Missi Randall
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Judy Albee
August 20, 2025
Sharon: Laurie was so kind to let me know of your tragic loss of your daughter, Virginia. I'm so sorry. I read Virginia's obituary and learned about her beautiful family and her love for all of them and for the children she taught. What a lovely person she must have been and such a blessing to her family and to you. I pray that God will hold you tightly in your bereavement and give you peace. Sincerely, Judy
Paul & Edie Menard
August 20, 2025
Sharon & Family,
Paul and I so very sorry for your loss.. you are all in our thoughts and prayers...
Paul and Edie Menard
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717 Griffin Road, Lakeland, FL 33805
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