Virginia Lee Shuttlesworth

Virginia Lee Shuttlesworth, beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, friend, passed peacefully October 25, 2024, in Belton, Texas. Born August 11, 1938, in Waco, she was the cherished only child of Oliver Theron Berry, Jr. and Florence Venita Glaze Berry. Virginia exemplified a life dedicated to service and love, a legacy that will live on in the hearts of many. 

As we gather to honor Virginia’s remarkable life, we remember her warmth, humor, and unparalleled spirit. Her service will take place, Tuesday, October 29, 2024, starting with a viewing at 12:00 PM at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home, 6101 Bosque Blvd in Waco, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM. Interment will follow at Waco Memorial Park. 

Virginia was a devoted wife to Reverend David M. Shuttlesworth, with whom she shared over sixty one years of marriage. Together, they touched the lives of church families at First Baptist Church Kempner, First Baptist Church Florence, Miller Heights Baptist Church, Park Lake Drive Baptist Church, and were longtime members of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church. Virginia was known for her spirited personality; she was gregarious, affectionate, and welcoming, never meeting a stranger. Her gift of hospitality made everyone feel at home, embodying the essence of a loving minister's wife. She spent years working behind the scenes to support her husband and the church community, forming lifelong friendships that enriched her life and the lives of those she encountered. 

Virginia was a proud graduate of Mary Hardin Baylor College, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Education, setting the foundation for a lifelong commitment to nurturing the minds of others. Virginia's career in education spanned over three decades, teaching English and History in the Belton Independent School District and Waco Independent School District, shaping countless lives and imparting the tools necessary for her students to strive for excellence. 

Virginia was a true to life woman of faith and virtue. She carried with her the steadfast belief in the Lord that guided her every action. After retiring from her teaching career, she continued to serve others through the ESL Program at Columbus Avenue Baptist Church. Her unwavering dedication to education and service were just a few of the proud accomplishments that highlighted her virtuous life.

Virginia is survived by her two loving sons, David Lee Shuttlesworth and his wife, Vicki, and William Theron “Bill” Shuttlesworth and his wife, Brenda. She was blessed with five grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart: Ashlie Bramlett and her husband, Chris Pearson; Erin Wyatt and her husband, John; Hailee Haney and her husband, AJ, Collin Shuttlesworth, and Kelvon Hightower-Yates. Virginia also embraced her role as a great-grandmother with joy, with her great-grandchildren, Mackenzie and Carlee Bramlett, Paul and James Wyatt, Amelia and Harper Haney, Kameron, Victoria, and Elizabeth Pearson. Her family’s love and admiration for her were limitless, a testament to the indelible mark she left on their lives.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Reverend David M. Shuttlesworth in 2018, who together with her parents, Oliver and Florence Berry, welcomed her into eternity.

Virginia Lee Shuttlesworth's legacy will continue through the love she shared and the lives she inspired, as she now rests in the embrace of her Lord and Savior, leaving behind a world that is brighter and fuller because she lived in it.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory of Virginia, on her “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.