Virginia Lee Young, of rural Novinger, passed away Wednesday, September 19, 2018 in Columbia, Missouri. She was born September 9, 1928, the daughter of Orval and Vye (Pierce) Smith. Virginia grew up on the Spring Creek Ranch in far eastern Sullivan County. She attended a rural school and graduated from the Green Castle High School. On September 18, 1946, Virginia married Paul James Young.

Surviving are her daughter Linda Harrelson, son Danny Young and wife Glenna, both of Kirksville; grandchildren Kristy Garcia, Jared Young, Paula Harrelson and Bryan Harrelson; two step-grandchildren Chet Daniels and Megan Elkins; four great-grandchildren and seven step-grandchildren. Other survivors include siblings Annie Dillard of Green Castle, Frank Smith of Illinois, and Larry L. Smith of Novinger, along with numerous other relatives. She also had a special connection with the Browning children who she took care of for many years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband on April 15, 1998, siblings Lorin Smith and Phylis Snyder Ferguson, and son-in-law Paul Harrelson.

Virginia resided in the Shibley’s Point Community for nearly 60 years. She loved the country life, her animals, garden, flowers, but most of all spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Virginia was very outgoing and loved to visit with people. She recently celebrated her 90th birthday with family and friends. Despite declining health over the past few years, she was determined to live independently in her home. Virginia was a member of the Novinger Baptist Church, where she enjoyed teaching Sunday School and Vacation Bible School for several years.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 23, 2018 at the Travis-Noe Funeral Home in Kirksville, Missouri with Pastor Dan Todd officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service. Burial will be in the Green Castle Cemetery.

Memorials are requested to the Green Castle Cemetery and may be left at or mailed to Travis-Noe Funeral Home, P.O. Box 306, Kirksville, MO 63501