Virginia Smith Ballou

Virginia “Jenny” Smith Ballou passed away on February 8, 2023 at the age of 86. She was born in Farmville, VA on Oct. 5, 1936 to the late Ottway and Virginia Brisentine Smith.

She was preceded in death by her husband Hiram Ballou and her granddaughter Brittany Rollins.

Jenny is survived by her son, David Rodney Franklin (Beth) of Powhatan, daughter Wanda Dews (Ralph) of Farmville, daughter Robin Elliott (John) of Roanoke, and daughter Cathy Rollins (Tony) of Southport, NC., thirteen beloved grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

She is also survived by 5 siblings, James Ira Smith of Prospect, Ottway “Tommy” Smith Jr. of Prospect, Ida S. Lane of Cullen, Iris S. Gilliam of Pamplin, and Sallye Covington of Pamplin.

Many will remember Jenny as the newspaper carrier who delivered the Richmond Times Dispatch to homes in the Farmville area. Prior to delivering newspapers, she worked as a foreman for Stackpole Components Company.

Jenny loved working in the garden, visiting with her grandchildren and great grandchildren, and especially enjoyed feeding her birds. Family was important to her. Nana touched so many with her love and wisdom. She surely will be missed.