POQUOSON—Virginia R. Stephenson, 100, a native of Southampton County, resident of Franklin for more than 30 years, and Poquoson resident the past three years, died Feb.14, 2009.
Mrs. Stephenson was a member of High Street United Methodist Church, Franklin, and was former Worthy Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star in Franklin.
After graduating from Longwood Teachers College, she taught in a one room school.
She was organist and Sunday School teacher at Mt. Horeb U. M. Church before moving to Franklin.
She loved to travel with friends and family, visiting all over North America from Alaska, Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, to Chincoteague Island.
She traveled to many countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa, and celebrated birthdays in many foreign lands over the years.
One of the highlights of her travels was being baptized in the River Jordan in Israel.
She also loved gardening and was especially proud of her cucumbers grown in her little garden in the backyard on Clay Street.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Julian H. Stepenson; daughter, Joyce S. Bracey; son, Alton R. Stephenson; and grandson, James F. Bracey III.
Survivors include two daughters, Frances S. Ferguson of Poquoson and Sherren S. Holland and husband Coleman of of Kitty Hawk, N.C.; a brother, Russell F. Revelle of Franklin; a sister, Hazel S. Bryant and husband Raymond of Franklin; five grandchildren, Robin S. Short of Wake Forest, N.C., Laura S. Morton of Woodbridge, Dana F. Cannella of Poquoson, Nicole H. French, and J. Clay Holland, both of Richmond; nine great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and a nephew.
A Celebration of Life Service was held Tuesday atClaytor Rollins Funeral Home by the Rev. Rita A. Callis.
Burial followed at Poplar Spring Cemetery in Franklin.
She was a longtime sponsor of children through the Christian Children’s Fund.
The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution be made to C.C.F., 2821 Emerywood Parkway, Richmond, VA, 23294, or online at www.christianchildrensfund.org .
Online condolences to www.claytorrollins.com.