Virginia Smith Spahr
September 9, 1907 ~ February 12, 2007
Virginia Smith Spahr, 99, passed away on Feb. 12, 2007, with her loving family by her side at the CT Hospice in Branford. She was born in Shelton, CT on September 9, 1907 to the late Charles H. and Genevieve Blake Smith. Virginia is survived by her daughter Virginia Miller Spahr of Hamden, granddaughters Suzanne Virginia Dagliere and her husband Mark of North Haven, and Sarah E. Ferns of North Haven, a great-grandson Vincent Celentano Jr. of North Haven and two nephews, W. Christen Smith and Charles R. Smith, both of Cincinnati, OH. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Col. Charles C. Smith. Virginia had many fond memories of living on the family homestead, Great Oak Farm, in Orange after moving there with her family as a teenager. Later in life, she resided in Hamden for over 30 years. She graduated from Wellesley College in 1930 and pursued her career as a first grade teacher in Milford. Virginia was a member and past president of the New Haven Wellesley Club, a member and past president of the New Haven Woman's Club, a member of the New Haven Bird Club, a member of Peabody Museum Associates and a member of The Church of the Good Shepherd. She enjoyed traveling abroad and appreciated all aspects of art, whether it was taking her children to shows or teaching summer painting classes. Virginia will be most remembered for her devotion to family and friends and her willingness to always be there. Her grace and strong spirit will be greatly missed. BEECHER & BENNETT, 2300 Whitney Ave., in care of arrangements. Funeral arrangements will be private. Contributions in Virginia's memory can be sent to CT Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford, CT 06405 OR the American Alzheimer's Association, South Central CT Chapt., 2911 Dixwell Ave., Ste. 104, Hamden, CT 06518.
Dear Ginny, Ray and I send you our deepest sympathy on the loss of your mother. I have many fond memories as a teenager visiting your home in Orange – your mother was always so welcoming to me. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Love, Dusty
Dear Ginny, Suzanne and Sarrah: I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my family’s prayers for your continued strength and courage in these difficult times. Sincerely, John, Carol and Adam Marenholz
Dear Spahr family members, On behalf of the New Haven Bird Club, I wish to express our condolence on the loss of our fellow member, Virginia. Virginia started her membership back in 1973 and became a Life Member in 1983. We are saddened by her loss, but grateful for the time we got to spend with her. New Haven Bird Club John Triana – President