Virginia ("Jenny") Sue Gibson James, 73, of Salisbury, died peacefully Wednesday May 10, 2017 at her home. She was born August 20th, 1943 in Lumberton to the late Walter Legrand Gibson and Sue Earl Dalton.
She grew up on the large family farm in Red Springs and graduated from Hoke County High School in 1961. She then attended High Point College where she received her B.A. degree in Education in 1965. After college, she taught elementary school in Chase City, Virginia and Lexington. Then, after teaching 6 years, she adjusted her focus and went to work for the Department of Social Services in Lexington where she worked in the child welfare department. From there, and in conjunction with a move back to farm life in Claudville, Virginia, she worked an additional 20 years for Northern Hospital of Surry County as a social worker.
She was a gentle soul who made friends easily and without prejudice. She was a devoted and loving wife and mother, and had a special gift for conversation. As a Christian she felt she best showed her faith by how she lived, and found comfort in her favorite verse, "Be still and know that I am God."
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Stephen (Steve) A. James, and her two brothers Bobby and David Gibson.
Survivors include her sons, Shane Manuel and wife Debbie of Salisbury, and Judd Manuel and wife Amy of Thorne Bay, Alaska; a stepson, Brian James and wife Wendy of Wilmington; a step-daughter, Elizabeth (Beth) Norris and husband Brian of High Point; grandchildren, Josh Hulin and fiancé Allie Ioannides, Ashley Thompson and her husband Michael, Brandon Morris, Benjamin James, Noah James, Callie Norris, and Owen Norris; sisters-in-law, Shirley Gibson (Bobby's wife),and Melba Gibson (David's wife), both of Raeford.
A Gathering of friends and family will be held on Saturday May 13, 2017 from 3-5 p.m. at the home of Virginia James.
Those wishing to honor her memory are welcomed to make donations in her honor to: Rowan Helping Ministries (226 N. Long Street, Salisbury, NC 28144, (704) 637-6838).
Online condolences may be made to www.carolinacremation.com.