Virginia Beach - Marie Ann Grissom, 94, passed away peacefully in her sleep into eternal life with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on July 27, 2018 at her home. She was predeceased in 2001 by Randall H. Grissom, her beloved husband of 55 years. She was also predeceased by her dear sister, Emma Rose Marshall, for whom she provided care for many years during Emma's illness.
Born on July 19, 1924 in New Philadelphia, PA, Marie was the eldest of five children born to Joseph Andrew and Mary Rita (Zetusky) Benderavage. Coming of age during the Great Depression, Marie knew the value of hard work and perseverance and the power of prayer. She was a strong, selfless woman with a beautiful soul filled with love and kindness for everyone she met.
After raising her five children, Marie worked for the Little Creek Country Store for many years where she developed many friendships. Upon her retirement, she devoted her time doting on her adoring grandchildren and providing comfort and care for those in need.
Left to cherish her memory are her children Patricia Phillips (Charles), Jeanne Buffington (Bob), Cathy Brugger (John), Joseph "Buck" Grissom (Janice), all of Va. Beach, and Michael Grissom (Luann) of Woodstock, GA. She is also survived by her sister Teresa Adkins, sister Josephine Dornin, brother Joseph Benderavage, 10 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family expresses deep gratitude to the nurses and staff of Sentara Hospice, as well as her beloved caregivers who all provided excellent care for our mother. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choosing.
A Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, August 1, 2018, at 11:30 a.m. at Church of the Holy Family, 1279 N. Great Neck Rd., Va. Beach, VA 23454 with visitation to begin one hour prior to service. A reception will be held immediately after the service at the church. Interment will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Rosewood Memorial Park, 601 N. Witchduck Rd., Va. Beach, Va. 23462. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.kellumfuneralhome.com.
