Vivian Smith Golding

Born in 1931 in Birch Grove, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada, Vivian was the youngest child of William James and Margaret May Smith (MacDonald). From an early age, she held a dream of becoming a teacher — a dream she fulfilled when she graduated from the Nova Scotia Teachers College in 1949. Her teaching career began in Nova Scotia and later brought her to Williamsburg, where she continued to inspire young minds.

Vivian’s passion for education and unwavering commitment to her students earned her widespread admiration and respect. In 1973, she was honored as an Outstanding Elementary Teacher of America, “for her contribution to the advancement of elementary education and service to the community”.

In 1954, Vivian met Albert Franklin Golding, a young U.S. Navy sailor, during a visit by the USS Columbia to Nova Scotia. That chance meeting blossomed into a beautiful 62-year marriage grounded in love, faith, and mutual devotion, until Al’s passing in 2017. They moved to Williamsburg in 1956 and built a rich and fulfilling life together as dedicated members of the Williamsburg United Methodist Church. Their faith was a cornerstone of their partnership, and they were active in Sunday School, Bible Study, and numerous other church ministries — always serving with joy and humility.

Vivian never forgot her Cape Breton roots. She and Al made annual trips to her beloved Birch Grove, a tradition lovingly preserved over the decades and affectionately remembered as part of their marriage vow. These visits became treasured family adventures, enriching the lives of many.

Vivian was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Al; her sons, Jeff and Darrell; her brother, William Gordon (Sara) Smith; two brothers who died in infancy; and her sisters, Irene (Mike) Sewchuk and Katherine “Kay” (Roy) Evans.

She leaves behind a loving extended family: her nephew and niece, William Norman and Diane Smith; great-niece, Krista Smith (Wilhelmus van Hal); great-nephews, Dr. Matthew Smith (Dr. Kerri Purdy) and Geoffrey (Sharilyn) Smith; and eight adored great-great-nieces and nephews — Owen and Carter Smith, Gracey and Emma Smith, Cameron van Hal, and Charlotte, William, and Harrison Smith. Each of them cherished the special bond they shared with Vivian.

Vivian also leaves behind many treasured friends, who were her Williamsburg family — including Judy Emanuel, Joyce Hedgepeth, Ken and Peggy Hook, and special neighbors and friends, Steve and Nancy Tatum. Their enduring friendships were a true source of joy and companionship in her life.

Vivian was known for her sense of humor, her love of shopping, and her vibrant fashion sense — the brighter and more patterned, the better. She delighted in eating at her favorite restaurants and visiting Colonial Williamsburg to hear the fife and drum performances, which never failed to bring her joy. Her playful spirit was perfectly captured in her college yearbook, which read: “Vivian never says much in class, but she is first in line when mischief is afoot. She has every chance of success — friend to the friendly, we always say!”

The family extends their sincere gratitude to the caregivers at Commonwealth Senior Living, whose kindness and support over the past year brought comfort and care to Vivian. A heartfelt thank you to Sandra and Judy Ann, in particular, for their compassion and attentiveness. Deep appreciation is also extended to the At Home Care Hospice team, especially Laurie, Mac, and Hope, whose presence during Vivian’s final days offered peace, comfort, and dignity.

A memorial service celebrating Vivian’s life will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Williamsburg United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Williamsburg United Methodist Church, in honor of Vivian’s lifelong faith and service.