VIRGINIA ISOM
Virginia Isom, a dearly loved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, transitioned to her heavenly home on October 10, at the age of 86. Born on July 9, 1940, in Uvalda, to the late Franke and Mattie Somerset. She lived a life rooted in family, faith, hard work, and meaningful friendships. Her love and care for others will remain a treasured part of the lives she touched.
Virginia received her education at Montgomery County High School in Ailey, where she was a member of the New Homemakers of America (NHA) and served as class secretary. She graduated with the class of 1958. Virginia was united in marriage to Hosea Isom of Baxley. Her family was central to her life, and her children were among her proudest blessings. Virginia was a member of St. James A.M.E. Church, where she served as a Sunday School teacher, Church Secretary and Treasurer, and Young People’s Department (YPD) director. Through these roles, she shared her faith and gave her time to her church community. She also served as secretary of her local NAACP chapter.
One of Virginia’s earliest jobs was at Ship N’ Shore, where she learned the art of sewing. She used those skills and her talent to make outfits for her sons when they were small children, adding a personal touch to the care she gave her family. Her appreciation for a clean, tailored look was evident in the pantsuits and dress suits she wore to church and special events. Virgina took pride in her work and had a natural gift for connecting with people. That warmth served her well in the hospitality industry, including her work at huddle house in Alma, and later at Denny’s in Brunswick. Virginia later joined Walmart in Brunswick, where she devoted 20 years and four months of service before retiring in August 2017. Her years of work reflected her dedication, perseverance, and pride in a job well done.
Virgina was very smart and had quite a sense of humor. She was a woman of simple elegance, whose quiet grace, thoughtfulness, and kindness made her special. Whenever it was within her ability, she gladly helped her children, grandchildren, and others who needed her. An avid cook, her southern cooking and backing were legendary, in the family. Everyone looked forward to the cakes, pies, and homemade dishes she prepared with such love. That same care extended beyond the kitchen, reflected in the flowers and plants she nurtured throughout her home and yard. She enjoyed treating herself to a good buffet, especially at Sarah’s in the City and Ole Times Country Buffet, and she rarely went without her favorite drink, green tea. In her later years, Virginia treasured her beloved circle of phone buddies. Their conversations brought stories, laughter, and companionship, and almost always included a question about the weather. Her friendships throughout the community also held a special place in her heart.
Above all, Virginia was deeply proud of her children and grandchildren. They were the heart of her story, and one of the greatest blessings of her journey. She delighted in sharing their accomplishments and telling others about the people who meant so much to her. Anyone who spent time talking with Virginia was likely to hear about her family. She leaves them with a lifetime of memories, lessons, and the lasting gift of knowing they were loved deeply, unconditionally, and always.
In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved brothers, Carl Somerset, Curtis Somerset, Thomas Somerset, and John Somerset.
Virginia leaves a legacy of love and memories through her four children: Vernon (Deborah) of Fairburn; Walter (Marcia) of Atlanta; Wallace (Letitia) of Palm Beach, FL; and Kimberly (Vincent) of Statesboro. They will forever treasure the memories, lessons, and love she shared with them.
She also leaves ten cherished grandchildren: Demario, Latasha (Jawon), Jaikeria (Dominique), Kennedy, Kolby, Keiondra, Madison, Makalya, Kamera, and Amayah; and two precious great-grandchildren: Latavia and Ashton. Her memory will also be treasured by her nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.
To her family, she will always be Momma, a source of love, strength, comfort, and pride. Her presence will be deeply missed, and her life will continue to be celebrated in the stories they share, the memories they hold close, and the love they carry forward.
A funeral service was held on Sunday, October 18, at St. James A.M.E. Church. Dr. Deborah Harrell Isom presided over the ceremony, and Reverend Dr. Cheryl Robinson was the Eulogist.
Musical selections were performed by Tiffani Bryon and James Isom. Pallbearers for the service were family and friends. An interment was held at Old Salem Cemetery in Mt. Vernon, and a Repass was held at St. James A.M.E. Church.
Professional services were entrusted to C.M. Brown Funeral Home.
