Virginia Wilson Powell

Born on October 17, 1932, in Leesburg, Florida, Virginia’s childhood was shaped by both adventure and resilience. During World War II, when her father was stationed in India, she and her sisters lived with their mother in Bath, New York. After the war, the family returned to Florida and settled in Sanford, where Virginia’s life blossomed.

At Sanford High School, she played the clarinet in the school band, where she met a nice drummer, James “Jimmy” Powell. After graduating in 1950, Virginia attended Florida State University for two years. Jimmy faithfully pursued her, and they were married on November 28, 1952, beginning a devoted marriage that would span more than five decades.

Virginia worked in banking before joining Powell Insurance. In 1957, she and Jimmy welcomed their son, David. The family moved to Atlanta for a while before returning to Sanford. Virginia continued her career as an insurance agent with Tucker & Branham, earning the trust and respect of her clients and colleagues.

A devoted lover of history, Virginia was a proud member of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR). She was deeply honored to serve as Regent of the Sallie Harrison Chapter in Sanford from 2002 to 2004. Her dedication to preserving history and serving her community reflected the strength of her character and the depth of her values.

Virginia was also active in her church and generously gave her time and talents to friends and family. She shared a special bond with her beloved granddaughter, Sarah, and her daughter-in-love, Gina Powell Smith. Among her greatest joys was teaching Sarah how to play the piano and how to make “Mimi’s tea cakes” — sweet traditions that will live on for generations.

Life became more difficult after Jimmy’s passing on May 18, 2009. The following year brought another profound loss when her son, David, died of a heart attack on September 19, 2010. Despite her deep grief, Virginia remained strong in her faith.

In 2012, she moved to North Carolina to live with her sister and brother-in-law, Peggy and Les Bolton. She shared six and a half meaningful years with them until Les became ill and passed away. For more than seven years afterward, her niece and nephew, Kim and Bruce Beall, lovingly opened their home to “Aunt Ginny.” Together they created many treasured memories filled with laughter, stories, and many large family gatherings.

Virginia was known by everyone for her kindness and consideration. She always had a smile, a warm spirit, and a gentle way of making others feel valued and welcome. Her gracious presence and thoughtful heart left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Virginia is survived by her granddaughter and her mother, Sarah Elizabeth Powell of Clearwater, Florida, and Gina Powell Smith of Sanford, Florida; her sister, Peggy Bolton of Leesburg, Virginia; her sister, Mary “Bonny” York of Abingdon, Virginia; and many loving nieces, nephews, and their children who were blessed by her presence in their lives.

A memorial service will be held on March 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Faithway Baptist Church, 75 Lawson Road SE, Unit 201, Leesburg, Virginia. A graveside service will be held on March 14 at 11:00 a.m. at Baldwin-Fairchild Oaklawn Cemetery in Sanford, Florida, at 5000 Country Road 46A.

Virginia will be remembered for her quiet strength, unwavering faith, love of history, devotion to family, and the grace with which she endured life’s joys and sorrows. Her legacy of love and faith will continue in the lives of those she touched.