Virginia Anderson Russell

She is survived and will be missed by her loving daughter, Rhonda Riddick(Bobby). “Mema” was loved dearly by her two grandsons, Bobby Riddick, Jr. (Kristine), and Daniel Riddick (Susan); great- grandchildren, Jackson, Peyton and Hudson, who brought an abundance of joy to her life; brothers, Champ (Helen), and Charles (Jackie), both of Danville; and sisters, Emma Turner of Danville, and Mariah Farmer of Richmond.

Born in Sutherlin, VA, one of eight children, Virginia was the first member of her family to graduate from college. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Longwood College (now Longwood University). She became the head librarian at Tuckahoe Junior High School (Henrico County) and served in that capacity for 26 years where she was well known, loved and respected by students, teachers, administrators and parents alike.

Upon retiring from Henrico County Public Schools, Virginia pursued a “second act” career in politics. She was a staunch Republican and proudly served in the campaigns of Governors Jim Gilmore and George Allen, Congressman Eric Cantor, all of the Bush family Presidential campaigns and many other local campaigns. Virginia was also a delegate to the National Republican Convention in New York City in 2004 and was appointed to the Silver Haired Congress in 1997 by Congressman Bliley. She seemed most proud of her eight year tenure serving on the Board of Visitors of Longwood University.

Virginia’s last seven years were spent as a resident of The Spring Arbor of Richmond Community. She loved being active, participating, speaking her mind, and caring for “her” garden and bird feeder. Her family would like to thank every Spring Arbor employee and resident who touched her life. She felt truly loved and cared for at Spring Arbor to the end. The family would also like to thank our dear hospice nurse, Ambria, who shepherded our family through the final year of Virginia’s life.

A visitation will be held on Monday, August 5th from 5-7 p.m. at Woody Funeral Home,1771 N. Parham Rd., Richmond, VA 23229. A service celebrating Virginia’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 6th at 11:00 a.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 8787 River Rd., Henrico, VA 23229. The family will receive friends and loved ones following the service in the church social hall. Donations to honor Virginia may be made to the Longwood University Foundation, 201 High St., Farmville, VA 23909.