James was injured as a young man in Bards town, with friends in a corn field. Later he died as a result from that injury. (Rifle injury to leg).
Jan 17, 1905 Virgie was born in Deatsville, Kentucky, the 5th child. She died August 29, 1997. As the only girl in the family at an early age she had to learn to "keep house" and help take are of the other children. After her mother died, she and "Grandma" took care of the twin girls until their death. She and "Grandma" kept the family together.
When she got a little older (about 14) she would sneak away from home to do housework for pay. Ms. Lillian Crumes was her first employer, she worked to earn a little spending money for herself. However her daddy didn't know about this until one day coming home early, he caught her returning from work. A little upset at first, her dad finally gave his approval for her to work occasionally as long as she kept up with her chores at home.
Her daddy's expectations was that everyone helped him out and worked. Thus the value of working hard, doing your best on the job was instilled early in Virgie and her brother's life. Her first son Jeridon Lee was born in the 1920's in Samuels. Her daddy was crazy about "Pete" and thus gave him his name Thomas as his last name.
She moved to Bards town when she was about 16 years old and got various jobs doing housework. She married Fred Maddox, Dec 2, 1928 at St. John A. M. E. Zion Church, (Bards town). They lived in a section of town called "Bucktown" and raised their children, Pete, Mae, Mildred, John Ed and Fred Jr. (Twins) Two other daughters, Elizabeth Lee and Dorothy died during their childhood. They later moved to her current residence where they raised farm animals and vegetables. She provided for her own family and shared extras with neighbors and friends.
Always outspoken, Virgie always spoke her mind. She believes in speaking the truth and not biting her tongue. She is a hard, dedicated worker, many of the "Big Shots" in Bards town wanted her to work for them. She worked for Thomas Nichols Insurance Company; Ernest Fullerton and Demaree, (Lawyers), Elizabeth Nichols, (Teacher), and Irvin's Tourist Cabins. Her employers respected her for her quick tongue and sharp mind she always "spoke her mind". She did not take unfair treatment or wages and gave them in return due respect and a honest, dependable day's work.
Living alone, she still keeps busy and active with the house, a few hens, Joe's beagle hounds, cats and flowers, She keeps in touch with family and friends daily by telephone and occasionally still fishes and visits. The crisp cool spring water that generously flows at her home, the solitude of the country, the daily chores of bringing in fire wood and hauling water have probably contributed to her longevity. Necessities we take for granted she lives without, but she always seems content and appreciative of her lifestyle.
Favorite color: Blue
Favorite Saying: "Hush up, let me tell it" and "You better listen."
Virgie speaks the truth...plain and honest. She has too many sayings to name. She always has an answer or response and will speak her mind. Quick tongued, sharp mind that respond to anything you say without the slightest hesitation.
Favorite Things to Do: She said..."Clean up for people, that is all I ever did". She enjoys little children and babies, talking and making people laugh. She still fishes sometimes with grandchildren. Watching TV, listening to the radio, especially "Swap Shop" and the weather.