News Summary
Chattanooga mourns the passing of Virginia Gladys Scaife, a beloved community member known for her kindness, support, and unwavering faith. Virginia, who lived a remarkable life for 90 years, impacted many lives through her family, career, and church involvement. A public viewing is scheduled for February 3, 2025, to honor her legacy.
Chattanooga Mourns the Loss of Virginia Gladys Scaife
This week, Chattanooga has lost a cherished member of the community with the passing of Virginia Gladys Scaife. Known for her kindness and unwavering support, Virginia touched the lives of many during her remarkable 90 years on this earth. On January 16, 2025, she peacefully left us, surrounded by her loving family.
A Life Well-Lived
Virginia was born on July 6, 1934, in the quaint town of Senoia, Georgia. Her parents, Claude Turner, Sr. and Jennie Lee Dixon Turner, instilled in her a sense of purpose and a love for education that would shape her life. Graduating from Howard High School in 1954, Virginia developed a passion for learning that lasted her lifetime. She didn’t just keep this love for knowledge to herself; it was essential to her that her children experience the same opportunities. She endlessly supported Ken, Linda, and Eric in their educational journeys, encouraging them to reach their full potential.
Faith and Community Involvement
Virginia’s faith was her anchor. From an early age, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior, carrying that belief with her throughout her life. After moving to Chattanooga as a teenager, she became a proud member of New Monumental Baptist Church. For over 70 years, Virginia embraced her church community, participating in various groups and events, including the Evergreen Club and the Usher Board.
Even as her health began to decline, her spirit and dedication never wavered. Virginia’s involvement at church wasn’t just a commitment; it was a part of her identity. Her joyful spirit radiated warmth and love, which remained ever-present in the lives of those who knew her.
A Career of Caring
Professionally, Virginia spent her career making significant contributions in various roles. She worked diligently at U.S. Pipe, Cavalier Corporation, and ultimately retired from Parkridge Hospital. Her compassion extended beyond her job as she served as a Hamilton County election worker for many years at Carver Center, demonstrating her commitment to both public service and her community.
A Loving Family
Virginia’s family was her pride and joy. She was preceded in death by her parents and cherished brother, Claude, Jr., along with her beloved nephew, Geoffrey Turner. However, she leaves behind her loving children—Kenneth (with his partner Celeste), Linda (with her husband Greg), and Eric—as well as a “second little girl” Erica and a bonus daughter Barbara. Her family tree further flourishes with her cherished grandchildren: Karla, Erin, and Eric, Jr., and one great-grandson, Ezra.
Virginia also shared an unbreakable bond with her sister and best friend, Ruby Traylor, and left behind a loving nephew, Kevin, a niece, Kittie, dear friends, and her beloved grand dog, Arly.
Farewell to a Beloved Community Member
In remembrance of Virginia, a public viewing will take place starting at 9 a.m. on February 3, 2025, at Monumental Baptist Church, 901 Woodmore Lane, until the service begins at 11:30 a.m.. Virginia’s journey will conclude with interment at Forest Hills Cemetery.
Arrangements are being managed by John P. Franklin Funeral Home in Chattanooga. As we celebrate the extraordinary life of Virginia Gladys Scaife, let’s remember her warmth, values, and the significant impact she had on our community and her family. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy will live on in the hearts of many.
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Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: Virginia Gladys Scaife
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Chattanoogan: Geiger, Thelma Tarrie Virginia Faber
- Google Search: Virginia Gladys Scaife
- Chattanoogan: Diane Patton Bookout
- Google Scholar: Virginia Gladys Scaife
- Chattanoogan: Medina, Lisa Diana Dalton
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Virginia Gladys Scaife
- Chattanoogan: Davis, Robert Nelson Trenton
- Google News: Virginia Gladys Scaife
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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