Virginia Ann Peters Flora

Virginia Ann Flora, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2008 after a long illness.

She was born October 10, 1929 to the late Beula Bowman Peters and John Wilcie Peters.

Virginia Ann is survived by her husband and life partner of 60 years, Richard S. Flora; three children and their families, daughter June and husband Georg and their children Savannah and Zach, daughter Carol and son Stuart and wife Elizabeth and their children, Blair Flora, April Flora, and April Mitchell and Kristin Mitchell and her sister Jewell’s family, Russell Thomas Boitnott, Anne McClelland and husband Bob, their children Alex and Hunter, John Boitnott and Carol Jean, Gladys Hall and husband Michael, William Boitnott and wife Helen, their children Russell and Peter.

Ginny, as she was lovingly called for most of her life, will be deeply missed by her family and friends. As a young woman, Virginia Ann proudly graduated from National Business College in Roanoke and worked for several years before becoming a fulltime homemaker to support her husband and children on the family farm. During most of her married life, Ginny lived close to her beloved sister, Jewell and her family, together creating a large and close extended family. As a wife, Virginia Ann worked along side Richard as he farmed and ran a family bulldozing business. Virginia Ann was seen often driving tractors, delivering fuel oil and walking land, along side Richard. As a mother, Virginia Ann lovingly supported her children through all aspects of their lives. Her most common advice for an array of problems was to “do your best.” Virginia Ann was an active member in her church, Antioch Church of the Brethren, serving many roles, but one of her favorites was as young people’s choir director. Throughout her life, Virginia Ann encountered serious health problems, in every case she fought her way back to normality through laughter, joy of family and love of life. She was a model of resilience for her family and community.

A service celebrating her life will be held at Antioch Church of the Brethren 1:00 p.m. Saturday, March 8, 2008 officiated by Pastor Tom Powers. Interment will follow in the Church Cemetery.

The family invites your consideration of a gift to the Franklin Co. Rescue Squads who served the family with care over many illnesses. The family expresses their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the many friends and neighbors who provided comfort, care and support during the past several weeks.

The family will receive friends at Antioch Church of the Brethren, Friday evening, March 7, 2008 from 6-8 p.m.

Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service, Rocky Mount. www.florafuneralservice.com