Virginia May Nelson Balcom, lifetime resident of Pennellville, died Sunday morning, June 23, 2013. She was born to Hazel May (Foster) and Earl W. Nelson on March 31, 1931 at their home in Pennellville. She was a 1948 graduate of Phoenix Schools. Virginia was an avid reader, and could always be found with a pair of knitting needles in her hands. She was a loving Mom, Grandmother and friend, that would always lend a helping hand. Virginia was married to her husband, Francis, on June 11, 1950; he died August 29, 2008. She started her working career at Sweet Brothers Co. in Phoenix, NY as a bookkeeper. She was offered the position, based upon her school teacher’s recom- mendation. When she began her family, she focused her energy as a homemaker and a Mom. In the 1970’s, she began working for Phoenix Central Schools. First as a Teacher’s aide and then as a Library Assistant in the Cherry Street School. In the early 1980’s, Virginia worked at TRIO Ceramics, helping to teach classes. Later her talents were applied to painting and decorating wood crafts for shows and fairs. Virginia was active in many organizations including: Phoenix Chapter of Amaranth and Eastern Star; she gave many years of service to Pennellville VFD Auxiliary serving in roles as Secretary, Vice President, and President. She also served in the same roles for the Oswego County Ladies Auxiliary. Virginia was a member of Phoenix Senior Citizens. A past member of Phoenix UCC Church for 70 plus years; and a current member of the Pulaski UCC Church.


Besides her husband Francis, Virginia was predeceased by a grandson, Scott Morrison. Surviving are her son, Gordon W. of Parish; daughters, Linda L. Lyons of Oswego, and Sherri A. Jackman and her husband, Paul of Cicero; her son Alan F. and partner Robert Weiner of LaFayette; her grand children, Ryan J. Lyons, Lori L. Lyons, Nate and Wesley Ann Balcom, Jessica L. Lyons, Rebecca Balcom, Robert and Mandy Morrison; two great-grandsons; several cousins, nieces and nephews.


Calling hours will be on Thursday June 27, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the Allanson-Glanville-Tappan Funeral Home, 431 Main St., Phoenix, NY 13135. Funeral services will be on Friday at 10:30 a.m the next day in the funeral home with the Rev. Lauri J. Craig officiating. Interment will be in Pennellville Cemetery, Co. Rt. 54. following the funeral.


Contributions in Virginia’s memory to: Alzheimer’s Association of CNY or the American Cancer Society.