Virginia Leonard Liles

Virginia Leonard Liles, born December 24, 1931, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2025, at the age of 93.

Born on Christmas Eve in Bladen County, North Carolina, Virginia was a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, and friend who lived a full life grounded in family. Raised in the close-knit community of Hickory Grove, she cherished the simple pleasures of country living and the bonds of a large, loving family.

She graduated from Garland High School and went on to earn a degree in Mathematics from Woman’s College, now known as the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). Virginia began her professional life as a schoolteacher but soon discovered her calling lay elsewhere. She moved to Asheville, North Carolina, where she worked in computer programming for the federal government until her retirement.

In her later years, Virginia relocated to southeastern Georgia to be near her extended family—a decision that reflected her deep devotion to kin. Yet her heart remained in North Carolina, and she returned to Asheville for the final chapter of her life.

Virginia was a woman of curiosity and independence. She had a deep appreciation for genealogy and often delved into her family’s rich history. She also enjoyed traveling and spending time outdoors.

She is lovingly remembered by her niece, Mary Liles Pokorne, and six nephews: Fred N. Liles (JoEllen), Charles Fiveash (Lang), David Fiveash (Lori), Bryan Fiveash (Anna), William A. Liles (Luanne), and Wade Liles (Lynn). She is also survived by numerous great-nieces and nephews, as well as great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom will remember her through passed-down memories.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, Lendon M. Liles and Virginia N. Liles; her siblings, Elizabeth Liles Peacock, John Liles, Fred Liles, William Liles, and Clara Liles Fiveash; and her eldest nephew, Junius Henry Liles.

A graveside service will be held this October at the ancient family cemetery, where Virginia will be laid to rest among generations of her loved ones.

In remembering Virginia, we honor a life devoted to family and the enduring ties of connection.