Obituary of Virginia Julia Chittum

Julia Virginia McDaniel was born on October 31, 1938, in Tazewell Tennessee. She was one of six daughters born from the union of Joe McDaniel and Julie (Pendelton) McDaniel.

On July 12, 1958, Virginia married the love of her life, Bob Chittum. Shortly after exchanging vows, the couple decided to start their married life in Monroe, seeking new opportunities and adventures as they began building their future. The couple was blessed with the birth of two daughters and Virginia embraced her role as a homemaker and mother.

Virginia's vegetable garden was her pride and joy, and she found satisfaction in cultivating a variety of produce

Her dedication and skill in preserving the harvest were legendary— green beans, beets, tomatoes, and pickles were carefully canned and frozen, ensuring the fruits of her labor could be enjoyed year-round.

As a grandmother, she cherished spending time with her grandchildren, offering them memorable weekends filled with adventure. The children's excitement was palpable each time they chose a weekend to visit Paw and Granny’s house, where they cooked food over a fire in the fireplace by antique oil lamps. Virginia would watch many of her grandchildren and became “Granny” to many others that she card for as well.

Earlier in life, Virginia was a waitress at Dunkin’ Donuts. Her warm demeanor and genuine interest in others made her a favorite among regulars. Virginia later founded a successful children's clothing business, "Cayla Marie Fashions," which allowed her to express her creativity and keen eye for fashion. Her business thrived as she provided stylish and comfortable clothing options for children.

Throughout her life, Virginia nurtured her spiritual well-being by attending services at Crosspoint Baptist Church in Monroe. Her faith was an integral part of her identity, providing her with a sense of peace and community.

Julia Virginia Chittum, age 86, of Monroe passed away at her home, surrounded by her family on Saturday; November 9, 2024. Her passing was preceded by her parents and four sisters.

To cherish her memory, she leaves her husband of sixty-six years: Bob; two daughters: Lucinda “Sindy” (Mark) Rabun and Lisa Martin; a sister: Betty Jo Cosby; five grandchildren: Cayla (Dagan) Trevino, Ashley Osborne, Cassandra Martin (Jordan Schaub), Lyndsy Rabun, and Lance Rabun; and ten great grandchildren.

Friends may gather on Wednesday; November 13, 2024, from 2:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070. A Celebration of Her Life will take place on Thursday; November 14, 2024, also at Merkle’s. A procession to St. Joseph Cemetery, Monroe for interment will immediately follow the service.

Virginia’s family would like to thank the staff of Elara Hospice and give special thanks to Tracy Browning and Danielle England for the dedication they gave to her family.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.