Obituary - Virginia Smith Haden

Virginia Smith Haden (86) passed away on February 19, 2024 and leaves behind a legacy of faith in God and devotion to her family and friends. She was an excellent baker, cook, decorator, seamstress, and gardener. Her homemade bread and chocolate pie could not be beat, and her azaleas and rose bushes were always immaculately cared for. She set the bar for decorating at Christmas, usually managing to fit more ornaments on her tree than most people could fathom. She loved country and gospel music, soap operas, collecting teapots, and swapping good books with her sister. During her 48 years as a crossing guard for the Henrico County Police Division, Virginia touched the lives of countless students and their families at Carver, Johnson, Three Chopt, and Skipwith Elementary Schools. She took pride in getting to know each of “her kids” and especially loved when opportunities arose to cross multiple generations from the same family. She was an active member of Second Baptist Church where she participated in the Women’s Missionary Union and other service activities. She was a devoted friend and neighbor, and always made sure that those she loved felt special through her cards, phone calls, prayers, and holiday treats. She was preceded in death by her mother, Clara and father, John. She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, William “Bill” Haden; sister, Betty; daughter, Gayle; son, Jeff (Cindy); five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the caregivers and health professionals who traveled this journey with them: LaShante, Sylvia, Samantha, Marquita, LaToya, Katty, Jaida, Makaila, and Jennifer.

A memorial service will be held at Bennett West Chapel on Friday, February 23, 2024, with visitation from 12:00pm-1:00pm and the service beginning at 1:00pm. A private burial will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to:

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
International Mission Board
3806 Monument Ave.
Richmond, VA 23230

Second Baptist Church.
9614 River Road
Richmond, VA 23229