Virginia Riddick Gomes was born to the late John and Bruce Riddick Branch in Whaleyville, VA on April 23, 1923, she was educated in Whaleyville Public Schools. He education far exceeded the school system, being a student in many subjects including gardening, holisitc health, cooking, politics, American hostory and many others. As an experienced baker, she enjoyed trying new recipes and giving away her creations to loved ones. Virginia was the family historian and maintained an extensive collection of photographs, letters and other documentation regarding her family. Widely known as a master quilt maker, she created intricate, colorful pieces of art that she would give away to family members and friends. Virginia was a hard-working person, often maintaining multiple jobs at the same time. She was a licensed barber and also worked as a waitress. She had many hobbies, though her greatest passion was her family, demonstrated by her active involvement with all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband John Gomes, sisters, Lurleen, Ruth, Lois, a brother Coleman and son-in-law, Lynwood Craig. Virginia is survived by her daughter, Loretta Craig of Norfolk, Donald Riddick of Baltimore; grandchildren, Anthony Craig(Angela) of Norfolk; Felicia Wilson (Charles) of Raleigh,NC and Marc Craig( Chrystal) of Norfolk; great-grandchildren, Anthony Craig Jr. "Kobe", Breanna Craig, Isaiah Wilson, Serena Wilson, Taylor Wilson, Marc Craig, Jaylen Craig and Alisa Craig, a host of loving nieces and nephews, Jacquelyn Dukes, Barbara Petty, Elenaor Harris, Abbolyn Byrd, Meryle Hoffler, Larmont Bond and Jerry Watson, cousins and very close friends, Vermelle Byrd, Barbara Walker, Sylvester Walker and Shirley Ponton.