Virginia (Phillips) Rayburn

Virginia “Ginger” Phillips Rayburn, 91, of Chattanooga, TN, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, 2020.

Virginia was born in Cleveland, TN on August 27, 1928 to the late James and Zelvia Phillips. She graduated from Bradley County Public School and McKenzie Business School. She was a member of First Cumberland Presbyterian Church where she taught bible class for 22 years. She was also active in Bible study for 60 years. Virginia enjoyed reading, painting, singing in the choir, and playing piano. She was the founder of Royal Oaks Garden Club and Rowewood Community Club.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 74 years, Robert L. Rayburn; brothers, Jay Manis, Charles and Hoyt Phillips; sister, Edna (Harvey) Dills.

She is survived by her sons, Robert P. (Deborah), Thomas M. (Brenda), Jeffrey L. (Sheila) Rayburn; grandchildren, Robert P., Jr., Jeffrey L., Jr., Andrew Alexander Rayburn, Bryan (Nicki) Rayburn, Laura (Derek) Bartley, Laura Virginia “Ginger” (Evan) Pierce; numerous great-grandchildren; a brother, James T. Phillips; and a sister, Jo Phillips Mink.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the private sitters that have become part of the family including Stephanie Britton, Brenda Atherton, Crystal Ballew, Tiffany Taylor, Susie Waller, and Jeannie Dodd. Special thanks to Hospice of Chattanooga and specifically mom and dad’s nurse, Ltonya Simpson who has become the sister we never had.

Funeral services will be held at 1 PM Friday, May 22, in the funeral home chapel with Dr. Lanny Johnson and Dr. Courtney Krueger officiating.  Interment will follow in the Chattanooga National Cemetery.The family will receive friends from 11 AM Friday, May 22, until the time of service, following all social distancing and CDC guidelines.

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Arrangements are by Heritage Funeral Home, 7454 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421.

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