Willie Virginia Mann, known affectionately as Virginia to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 1, 2025, at the age of 98 in Marlow, Oklahoma. Born on July 7, 1926, in Bailey, Oklahoma, Virginia was a beacon of light and warmth to all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Virginia’s life was marked by her dedication to education and her love for her family. After earning her bachelor’s degree from the Oklahoma College for Women, she went on to inspire countless students as a teacher for Gatlin, Sterling, and Marlow Public Schools, dedicating 31 years to education before her well-deserved retirement.
Virginia’s creativity and skillful hands brought joy and beauty into the world. She penned a book detailing her family’s history, capturing the essence of her heritage for future generations. Her artistic talents were also displayed through her paintings and her exceptional ability to sew everything from prom dresses to motorcycle club vests. She was a lifelong member at the Marlow Church of Christ. Her passion for life extended to her hobbies, which included reading, playing dominoes and cards, and waltzing at the Senior Citizen Dances.
She is lovingly remembered by her family, including her son, Ronald Mann of Rush Springs, daughters Arleta Freeman and her husband Michael of Marlow, and Laneta Going of Oklahoma City. Her legacy continues through her grandson, Jason Going, and her great-grandson, Thomas Going, as well as the many nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.
Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Mann, her parents, Clinton and Willie (Henderson) Whitehead, her sister, Cleo Henry, and brothers Charley, Nob, Carl, Elton, Jack, and Kin Whitehead, as well as her grandson, Jerad Going.
Obituary Provided by Callaway-Smith Funeral Home.