8/31/1919 to 11/15/2018
Brockport/Holley: Mom/Virginia/Mrs. Robb left this world peacefully and with her heart full of love received from family, friends, colleagues and students. For the last 99 years, she has given love and compassion to all she encountered.
Born in Lima, NY to Victor and Frances (Dillon) Orman, Virginia graduated from Charlotte High School, Rochester, NY where she participated in plays, choral groups and played the violin and guitar. She graduated from Brockport Normal School in 1940 and moved to Huntington, Long Island for her first teaching job. It was on Long Island where she met her future husband, Don/Dee Robb, while he was on leave from the US Navy during WW ll.
Following teaching jobs in Washington State, Virginia and Florida, the Robb family settled in Clarendon, NY where Holley Elementary School became her long-time career home. She loved her profession and loved the children whose lives she enriched. Virginia devised creative methods to help every student learn to the best of their ability. She strove to uplift and instill pride of accomplishment in all of her students.
After 40 years of teaching, Virginia retired in 1980 and shortly thereafter, she and Don bought a home in Ocala, Florida where they spent close to 25 years and met more wonderful people from across the country who became dear friends. All were very active in their community, church and schools.
Upon her husband’s death in 2005, Virginia moved back “home” where she looked forward to seeing lots of familiar faces at the store, concerts, church, Flag Day, etc. Hearing “Mrs. Robb, do you remember me?” was always a huge joy as former 2nd and 4th grade students, now parents and grandparents themselves, shared memories and hugs.
Virginia was predeceased by her husband, Donald H. in 2005; son, Donald V. in 2017; daughter, Nancy in 1968; siblings Vincent Orman, Evelyn Milner and Dora Siegfried.
Survived by daughters, Priscilla (Craig) McAllister, Barbara (Donald) Phillips; grandchildren Kelly (Craig) Kenney and Sean McAllister (Shane Warner); Cheryl Turner; Donna Robb and Jennifer (Christopher) Holmberg; great-grandchildren Nathan & William Kenney; Emily & Jack Holmberg; numerous nieces, nephews and you – her dear friends and students.
Known by many people and addressed by various monikers: Mrs. Robb, Virginia, Gin, Aunt Ginny, Grandma – we are so thankful that we’ve been privileged to call her “Mom”.
A reception celebrating her life will be announced at a later date.
To honor Virginia’s memory, we encourage you to engage in one of her best-remembered classroom activities – reading aloud to young folks. The Secret Garden and Misty of Chincoteague were favorites of both students and teacher.
Our many thanks to Lifetime Care for their wonderful support and services provided for Virginia and her family. Donations in Virginia’s memory may be sent to: Hospice, 3111 South Winton Road, Rochester, NY 14623 or to a charity of one’s choice.
Condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.fowlerfuneralhomeinc.com or by mail to Virginia’s family at PO Box 17, Clarendon, NY 14429.
