Virginia Lee Jennings

Virginia Lee Jennings, born on August 3, 1942, in Claremore, Oklahoma, passed away on August 15, 2025, in Pryor, Oklahoma. She was a dedicated educator, having worked as a biology and chemistry teacher at various schools throughout her career, most notably retiring from Pryor Public Schools. Virginia earned her bachelor's degree in education from Northeastern State University, which solidified her lifelong commitment to nurturing young minds.

Virginia's life was a tapestry of love, faith, and service. Married to Stephen Jennings on October 4, 1962, they cherished nearly 63 years together, exemplifying a partnership rooted in devotion and mutual respect. Family was paramount to Virginia; she is survived by her husband, Stephen Jennings, their son, Vance Foreman Jennings of Pryor, OK, and their daughter, Stephanie Lee Gaines, along with her husband Dan, also of Pryor, OK. She is also survived by her brother, Robert Hendrickson and his wife Jenean of Chelsea, OK, and her sister, Terri Calderwood of Norman, OK. Virginia's legacy continues through her grandchildren—Jay Curtsinger, Brandon Gaines, Brad Gaines, Marissa Jennings, and Vanessa Jennings—and her great-grandchildren—Jakoby Curtsinger, Jayce Curtsinger, Blair Curtsinger, Bryce Orman, Claire Gaines, and Melanie Orman.

A woman of faith, Virginia was a devoted member of Pleasant View Baptist Church, where she not only attended services but enjoyed sharing her knowledge and passion for learning. Her strength in faith underscored her life’s mission as a faithful servant to the Lord. Additionally, Virginia found joy in reading and frequently visited Big Cedar in Branson, enjoying the beauty of the Ozarks and the mountains. A spirited sports fan, she relished watching college sports, particularly cheering for OSU.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Roy Lee and Jesse Mae (Caldwell) Hendrickson, and her brother, Bruce Hendrickson. She leaves behind a rich legacy of love, education, and faith that will be admired by all who knew her.

Funeral services for Virginia will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 22, 2025, at Pleasant View Baptist Church with Pastor Andy Pilant officiating. Interment will follow in the Woodlawn Cemetery in Claremore. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Shipman's Funeral Home in Pryor. To leave a personal message, please visit her guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made to Pleasant View Baptist Church, in Virginia's honor. Donations can be sent to P.O box 111 Pryor, Oklahoma 74361.