OBITUARIES: Virginia Blackburn

Virginia Blackburn, 88 of Galatia, passed away 9:32 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, 2015, surrounded by her family at the Carrier Mills Nursing Home.

Virginia was born on July 27, 1926, to Bertram and Madge (Gill) Braden. On Nov. 5, 1949, Virginia was united in marriage to Thomas S. (Buck) Blackburn. They lived many years in the New Hope Community on Netty Green Road and later moved into town in Galatia. Buck preceded her in death on August 14, 2003. Virginia spent the last five years at Autumn ridge Assisted Living in Vienna.

Virginia had four sisters and two brothers. Burnett Braden, John Braden and Linda Aldridge all preceded her in death. She is survived by Mildred Hoffard of Johnston City, Wanda Deen of Mcleansboro and Shirley Teal of Galatia. She also leaves many dear nieces and nephews and friends.

Virginia enjoyed painting and received several ribbons. She was also an accomplished seamstress. She was very involved in genealogy and spent many hours researching and helping other people trace their ancestors.

Virginia loved her church, Old Brushy fork Primitive Baptist Church. She and Buck worked on replacing deteriorating headstones and acquiring headstones for Civil War veterans at Brushy and Bethel Creek Cemeteries where many of our ancestors attended church and are buried.

Virginia also loved the Galatia Library where she spent much time with her friends.

Funeral services will held 4 p.m. Friday April 3, 2015, at Brushy Fork Primitive Baptist Church in Harco with burial following at Brushy Cemetery.

Dinner will be served afterwards at the church. All friends and family are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Brushy Cemetery and the Galatia Library.

Sloan Funeral Home of Galatia in charge of arrangements.