Virginia May (Nelson) Balcom, lifetime resident of Pennellville died Sunday morning, June 23. She was born to Hazel and Earl Nelson on March 31, 1931 at their home in Pennellville. 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 in Phoenix as a bookkeeper when she was offered the position based on her school teacher's recommendation. When she started her family, she focused her energy as a homemaker and Mom. In the 1970's, she began working for the Phoenix 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 to the Pennellville VFD Auxiliary in roles as Secretary, Vice President and President, filling the same positions with the Oswego County Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a member of the Phoenix Senior Citizens. Virginia is a past member of the Phoenix UCC Church (for 70 plus years) and a current member of the Pulaski UCC Church. Surviving are her son, Gordon W. of Parish; daughters, Linda L. Lyons of Oswego, Sherri A. Jackman and husband Paul of Cicero; son, Alan F. and partner, Robert Weiner of LaFayette; grandchildren, Ryan J. Lyons, Lori L. Lyons, Nate and Wesley Ann Balcom, Jessica L. Lyons, Rebecca Balcom, Robert and Mandy Morrison; and two great-grandsons. She is predeceased by one grandson, Scott Morrison. She is also survived by several cousins, nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Allanson-Glanville-Tappan funeral home. Calling hours 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home, 431 Main St., Phoenix. Interment in Pennellville Cemetery. Contributions can be made to of CNY.

Published in Syracuse Post Standard from June 24 to June 25, 2013