?Locally beloved and nationally acclaimed champion for children, Virginia Burch Blount passed away at home in Grand Ridge on Wednesday, January 2, 2019.
?Born to Ruby and Jessie Burch, Virginia grew up as the only sister to brothers, Marvin, Jerome, Layfette and Kenneth. At an early age, she learned the value of hard work and the joy of loving.
?Virginia delighted in learning and, even in childhood, planned to become a teacher. After graduation from Grand Ridge High School, she continued her education by earning a Bachelor of Science at Florida State University and later a Master of Science and an Education Specialist Degree from Troy University. During her 42-year career with the Jackson County School District, she first taught elementary school at Grand Ridge and then was named curriculum coordinator for the school. In this capacity, she was responsible for implementing the Open Court reading program which garnered national recognition for significantly increased student achievement.
?Subsequently, Virginia served as principal at Sneads Elementary where she led the school to distinguished "A" school status year after year.
?Virginia's legacy rests upon her sincere desire to help and serve each child. Her generosity, concern and diligence made the difference as she was often an unsung heroine to both children and adult, whom she helped whenever and however she could.
?Virginia is preceded in death by her parents Ruby and Jesse Burch; brothers, Jerome, Kenneth, and Marvin.
She is survived by her husband of 59 years, James "Shorty" Blount; brother, Layfette Burch and wife, Gwen Burch; daughter, Miranda Hicks of Dallas, Texas; beloved grandson, Jameson Blount Maddox of Columbus, Ohio, and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Funeral services will be 11 A.M. Saturday, January 5, 2019 at Grand Ridge First Baptist. Interment will follow in Cypress Cemetery with James & Sikes Funeral Home Maddox Chapel directing.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Grand Ridge Baptist Church.
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