Virginia Tweedy Blankenship

Virginia Tweedy Blankenship, 89, of Forest passed away Wednesday, September 2, 2015, at her residence surrounded by her family. She was the wife of Charles Reggie Blankenship. Born September 24, 1925, in Lynchburg, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Veda Tweedy. Also preceded in death by five sisters: Altha, Verna, Margaret, Lura and Ida and two brothers, Rex and Ira (“Zick”).

Virginia spent her early working years as a seamstress with quite an eye for detail. She carried those skills into her next role as a homemaker making beautiful clothes for her family and dressing up her home with unique things. She was also a wonderful cook and gardener. She often won accolades for her homemade yeast rolls and received awards for the yard of the week.

She was an active member of the church most of her life giving of her time teaching Sunday School, helping to start and grow youth programs and cooking meals for many functions. Over the years, her gift of hospitality and her love of volunteering also gained her awards for service with the Red Cross.

Virginia’s love for her family was evident in everything she did. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She is survived by her husband Reggie, who was by her side giving unprecedented care until her last moment; two children, Philip Nelson (Carolyn) and Linda Ramsey (Doug); four grandchildren, Doug Ramsey, Jr. (Deborah), Penny Downs (Mark), Christina VanLear and Troy Nelson (Tara); six great grandchildren, Chris, Matt, Mitchell, Sarah, Gunnar and Carley; as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank their neighbor Craig for the giving of his precious time and willingness to lend a hand helping with lawn care; and Centra Hospice (especially Terry) for all of the love and care that she gave to Virginia and the family.

A funeral service will be conducted 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 5, 2015, at Whitten Timberlake Chapel with the Rev. A.C. Wells officiating. Interment will follow at Fort Hill Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends 6-8 p.m., Friday, September 4, 2015, at Whitten Timberlake Chapel.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 1022 Commerce St., Lynchburg, VA 24504.

To send condolences to the family, please visit www.whittentimberlake.com.

Whitten Timberlake Chapel, 7404 Timberlake Rd., Lynchburg, VA 24502, (434) 239-0331, is serving the family.