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Virginia Cummings Seese Negley of Kingwood, West Virginia, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2026, at New Horizon Assisted Living in Kingwood, WV.
She was born in Grafton, WV on July 6, 1925, she moved to Kingwood at the tender age of 7. Virginia was the beloved daughter of Elta Evans Skaggs and Charles R. Skaggs.
A proud graduate of Kingwood High School, Class of 1943, Virginia continued her education at Fairmont State College and further pursued graduate studies at West Virginia University. Her passion for education led her to a remarkable 39-year teaching career at Kingwood Elementary School, where she deeply touched the lives of countless children. In recognition of her dedication, she was honored as Preston County Teacher of the Year in 1973 and received the title of Hidden Heroine from Girl Scout Troop 4550 in Kingwood, WV.
Virginia was not only a devoted educator but also an active member of her community. She faithfully attended Wesley United Methodist Church and was involved in various civic and professional organizations, including the Kingwood Civics Club, Daughters of the American Revolution, Hagan Evans Chapter, Delta Kappa Gamma (an honor society for women teachers), Paul Harris Fellow Foundation, and the International Rotary Club. She was also a member of the Preston County School Employees.
Beyond her professional achievements and civic contributions, Virginia had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. She cherished her special bond with Abby, a dog that frequently visited from her neighbors, Debbie and Tom Bern. Abby often delivered goodies between their homes, and Virginia considered her 'grand-dog,' reflecting the close-knit relationship she shared with Tom and Debbie, who were like family to her.
Virginia was preceded in death by her husbands, Carl P. Cummings, Charles E. Seese, and Reverend John M. Negley; her sister, Betty Menear and a step son, John Negley. She is survived by her stepchildren, Rose Burdelte of Wellsburg, WV, Donna (Joe) Ward of Paden City, WV, Rebecca (Donald) Will, and daughter-in-law, Debbie Negley of Williamstown, WV. She is also remembered by her nephews, Charles Menear of Lakewood, CO, Daniel Menear of AL and niece, Connie Knight of Georgia, her cousins, Mike and Bianca Skaggs of Flemington, WV; her dear friend and caregiver, Sandra Shrout and many special friends.
Virginia Cummings Seese Negley will be dearly missed as a cherished pillar of the community, whose legacy of love, teaching, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Friends may call at the Wesley United Methodist Church in Kingwood, WV on Friday, September 4, 2026, from 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday, September 5, 2026, from 10 am until the 11 a.m. time of service with Pastor Mike Ludle officiating. Burial will follow at the Maplewood Cemetery in Kingwood.
In lieu of flowers the family recommends donations in Virginia's memory to the Preston County Animal Shelter, 278 Poor Farm Road, Kingwood, WV 26537 or the Preston County Humane Society, PO Box 395, Kingwood, WV 26537.
Condolences may be extended online to the family at www.fieldfuneralhome.com.