Virginia Jacobs Shamburger

Virginia Jacobs Shamburger, of Montgomery, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 18, 2026, and is now with her Lord and Savior. Her life was filled with devotion to her family, a love of teaching, and friendships nurtured through her church and her many years with Mary Kay Cosmetics.

Born on September 11, 1937, in Coffee County, Alabama, Virginia was the daughter of Willie D. and Ouida P. (Brown) Jacobs. She shared 52 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Elbert Jack Shamburger, who preceded her in death along with her parents, brother, Dr. William D. Jacobs and sister in-law, Barbara L. Jacobs.

Faith held a special place in Virginia’s life. An active member of Dalraida Global Methodist Church, she sang in the choir for more than forty years. Through those years of rehearsals, worship services, and familiar hymns, the choir became a cherished part of her life. Singing offered her a meaningful way to express her faith, serve her church, and share in the fellowship of people dear to her. Her voice was part of the congregation’s worship for decades, and her presence will be deeply missed.

Her care for others was equally evident in the classroom. A graduate of Elba High School and Troy State College, now Troy University, Virginia earned a bachelor’s degree in education and later returned to complete her master’s degree. She was also a member of Kappa Delta Pi, the education honor society.

For more than 25 years, Virginia taught elementary school children, helping generations of students learn and grow. Her teaching career included Bellinger Hill, Dalraida, Peter Crump, and Head elementary schools in Montgomery County. She retired in 1992, but her affection for her students and fellow educators remained. When she learned that Head Elementary School would close, she organized a celebration bringing together former principals, teachers, and office and support staff to honor the school and the memories they shared.

For more than forty years with Mary Kay Cosmetics, Virginia helped women enhance their natural beauty while offering encouragement and personal attention. The lasting friendships she formed were the most meaningful part of her work.

Virginia is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Philip and Robin Shamburger of Pike Road; her son, Steve Shamburger of Orlando, Florida; and her daughter, Susanne Shamburger of Pike Road. She also leaves three grandchildren, Austin Shamburger (Erin) of Pike Road, Amber Shamburger Brooks (Chris) of West Point, Virginia, and Justin Shamburger of Montgomery; and one step-grandson, Kyle Dever (Debby) of Deatsville.

Her family also includes five great-grandchildren, Eli Shamburger, Anna Laughon Brooks, Ada Louise Brooks, Cylas Ford Brooks, and Otis Hayes Shamburger, with a sixth great-grandchild expected in November 2026. She is also lovingly remembered by the family of her late brother, Dr. William D. Jacobs.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Jackie (Dee), Rita, Shirley, and Vicky for the kindness and care they gave Virginia.

A service celebrating Virginia’s life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, October 23, 2026 at Dalraida Global Methodist Church. Visitation will take place at the church one hour before the service. Interment will follow at Greenwood Serenity Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Dalraida Global Methodist Church, 3817 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36109.

Virginia will be lovingly remembered by her family, the children she taught, the friends she made through Mary Kay, and those who stood beside her in the choir.