Virginia Gillon Smith

Virginia Gillon Smith, 99, Palmetto, passed away June 26, 2016.

She was born July 17, 1916 in Sanford, FL to the late John Michael and Nellie Hill (Russell) Gillon. Virginia moved to Manatee County in 1950 coming from Sanford.

She was a retired insurance agent, and a member of the Palmetto First United Methodist Church where she formerly served on the Finance Committee, and was the founder and chairperson of the Palmetto United Methodist Church Thrift Shop. Her other memberships included the Palmetto Women’s Club, Palmetto Junior Club, Daughters of the American Revolution, United Daughters of the Confederacy, Bradenton Yacht Club, served on the Board of the South Florida Museum, and served for 20 years on the U.S. Academy Board making appointments to the various military academies.

She is survived by her loving son, Charles Gillon Ward M.D. and his wife MaryAnn (nee: Wentzel) of Eatonton, GA, two precious grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Virginia'sl ife will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Saturday, October 15, 2016 at the First United Methodist Church of Palmetto, 330 11th Avenue West, Palmetto, Florida. Private inurnment was held at the Palmetto City Cemetery where she was buried next to her late husband J. Raymond Smith.

Condolences for the family may be made online at www.shannonfuneralhomes.com.