Pamunkey Woman’s Club Calendar Show

About Virginia Darnell

Virginia Singleton Darnell has been a trailblazer in both faith and community service. A long-time member of First Baptist Church of Richmond, she broke numerous gender barriers—becoming one of the earliest women elected as a deacon in 1979 and the church’s first female chairman of the board of deacons in 1996. She was also the first woman to serve on the board of the church’s Endowment Fund, where she served as secretary. Deeply involved in church leadership, historic preservation, and major initiatives, she even helped review architectural plans for church expansions, impressing many with her technical knowledge.

Beyond the church, Virginia has led efforts with the Virginia Federation of Women's Clubs, the Pamunkey Woman’s Club, and the American Cancer Society. From restoring historic mills to raising hundreds of thousands for worthy causes, she has exemplified servant leadership.

Virginia Darnell helped pioneer the historical calendar exhibit by partnering with local artists to feature hand-painted scenes of Hanover County’s most treasured landmarks. Her vision brought together history and art, celebrating the county’s heritage while supporting community engagement. Through her leadership, the calendar became a beloved annual tradition.