Virginia Hadley Newell

Virginia was born in Chicago on March 22, 1918, the daughter of Bryant and Ruth Hadley. She moved to Springfield as a youngster and lived there for 39 years, attending Springfield High School and Illinois State University. She married Springfield resident Robert Newell in 1938. In Springfield, Virginia was active in many sports, especially golf, tennis and swimming. She was also active in the YWCA, and was a charter member of the Springfield Jaycees. She was also supportive of many family activities.

The Newells moved to Rockford in 1967 and remained there for the rest of their lives. They had many good friends in Rockford and were active in Westminster Presbyterian Church, golf, tennis and volunteer work with Rockford Memorial Hospital, where she died on November 6. Her life was long and full. Her unfailing support for her family, adventurous spirt, and persistence in good times and challenging times were a model for all.

Virginia was preceded by her lifelong love, husband Robert, in 1995. She is survived by two sons, Robert, Jr. and Bruce, six grandchildren, and 4 great grandchildren.

Visitation: Family will receive friends from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2015 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 North Rockton Avenue, Rockford.

An additional visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at Boardman Smith Funeral Home, 800 South Grand Avenue West, Springfield.

Graveside Ceremony: 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11, 2015 at Roselawn Memorial Park.