Virginia B. Smith

1939 - 2023

SMITH, Virginia B., 83, of Richmond, Va., passed away on April 28, 2023 surrounded by family after living with Alzheimer's for a number of years. Virginia was beautiful inside and out; and was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher and friend. She lived a life of service to others through caring, hospitality and love.

Virginia grew up in Smithfield, N.C. Known as "Jenny" to many as a child and young adult, she enjoyed life with her family in the community, played high school basketball (a sport she faithfully followed throughout her life) and dated her future husband, Billy from nearby Selma. Virginia went on to graduate from her beloved Meredith College, marry Bill and move to Warsaw, Va. where she was an extension agent, taught piano, took in sewing and first began teaching. As newlyweds there, they both fell in love with the Rappahannock River and would later spend the later years of their life on this river boating, fishing and enjoying special times with family and friends. A few years later, they moved to Richmond and shortly thereafter expanded their family with two sons, Bill Jr. and Steve. With the family of four now set, they then adventured a move to the Delmarva peninsula settling in Seaford, Delaware where Virginia was a teacher, active in the community and church, as well as an encouraging wife and loving mother to two growing boys. Years later, the family returned to Richmond for their final stop where Virginia completed her Masters of Elementary Education; continued to teach until retirement; remained active in church and clubs; and traveled with Bill to all 50 states and Europe. Virginia lovingly touched and enriched many lives during her life journey, most notably her husband, sons, daughter-in-laws, grandchildren (and recently great-grandchild named after her), friends and countless students she taught for over 30 years in elementary, middle and high schools. Virginia was adored by her family and loved by all.

Virginia is survived by her husband, Bill; son, Bill Jr. (Sissy); son, Steve (Kellye); grandchildren, (Russ (Elizabeth), Kelsey (James), Evan, Dalton); and great-granddaughter, (Ellie). She is also survived by her sister, Mary Ann B. Hopkins, and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the many caregivers that helped and cared for Virginia in so many loving ways.

A memorial service and reception will be held at River Road Church, Baptist (8000 River Rd., Richmond, Va.) on Tuesday, May 9 at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association.