Virginia M. Ould

Born on December 28, 1925, in New York, New York, Virginia graced this world with her presence for 99 vibrant years. As we reflect on her journey, we are reminded not only of her longevity but of the fulfilling life she lived, deeply steeped in the values she cherished. Jeanne, as she was known to family and friends, lived a life filled with compassion, love, and dedication to both family and friends.

Jeanne was the eleventh child of sixteen in a bustling Irish Catholic family. From her earliest days, surrounded by the music of laughter and the lessons of faith, she learned the importance of community and connection. Her childhood stories, filled with the joy and challenges of growing up in a large family, painted scenes vivid and rich moments that not only shaped her spirit but resonated within all of us who had the privilege of hearing them. She grew up in Brooklyn and Queens New York where she had the privilege to attended St. Thomas The Apostle Elementary School, Richmond Hill High School, and Katharine Gibbs School in New York City.

Jeanne was an avid reader, a passion that opened new worlds beyond her own and enriched her understanding of life. She loved the beauty of dance and spent countless hours in gardens, tending to God’s creation with careful hands. She was a skilled crocheter, crafting gifts filled with warmth for her loved ones. Her heart found delight in opera, a love she shared through her active membership in The Villages Opera Club, where she found yet another community to enrich with her presence.

Her professional journey took her from being a switch board operator at Automobile Club of America in New York City, and Dog Enumerator for the Village of Deer Park to working at a stationery store and later contributing her talents at American Express in Southern Florida. Each role she took on was another thread in the vibrant tapestry of her life, showcasing her adaptability and relentless spirit.

Jeanne's heart was her guiding compass, leading her to become a cornerstone of St. Mark the Evangelist Church. She attended mass daily, drawing strength and inspiration from her faith. Her devotion to service was evident in her active participation in the Women’s Guild, Respite Care, and the Small Christian Community. She was immeasurably proud of her involvement in the Emmaus Sisters, fostering others to renew their faith in God. Even at age 84, she continued to deepen her spirituality by professing her life to the Secular Order of Franciscans.

Jeanne was not just a dedicated worker and community member; she was a devoted and loving wife of Lawrence J. Ould for 59 years until his death in November 2006. She and her husband shared countless adventures, enjoying simple pleasures like tennis, fishing, shopping, dancing and entertaining. They found joy in each other's company, especially in their shared love of shopping, cherishing those moments as precious memories now held dear by those who knew her.

Jeanne’s proudest accomplishments were her children, Cecelia, Patricia and Lawrence. She nurtured each of them with unwavering faith, teaching them to believe in themselves and the goodness of the world. Her kindness was woven into every moment, whether it was a soft word of encouragement or a quiet gesture of support.

She passed down her loving and caregiving qualities, always putting the needs of others above her own, and instilling in her children the importance of empathy and compassion. She understood that her legacy would live on in the way they loved and cared for others, a testament to the values she had worked so tirelessly to impart. She also was predeceased by two of her children, who died at very young ages, Lawrence Michael Ould, and Carol Ann Ould. She loved them each dearly and missed them terribly throughout her life.

Jeanne is survived by her daughter Cecelia J. Damaso and her husband Leonard; her daughter Patricia J. Ould and her wife Kate Sherrill; her son Lawrence J. Ould; her brother Arthur Kennedy; her granddaughter Carrianne Jackson and her husband John J. Jackson; her grandson Brian Damaso; her granddaughter Maureen Wright and her husband Kevin Wright; and her great grandchildren Sophia Jackson, Alexander Jackson, Nathaniel Jackson, Benjamin Jackson, Jacob Jackson, Liam Wright, Olivia Wright, and Dylan Damaso.

All who had the privilege to know Jeanne should find comfort in the belief that just as she watched over you in life, she will continue to do so in death. Her spirit, always loving and caring, remains close to those she cherished. Jeanne’s life was a testament to the profound truth that love, when given freely, enriches both the giver and the recipient. Her family and friends will remember and cherish the blessings that Jeanne bestowed upon them.

A traditional Irish blessing, one that Jeanne cherished, emphasizes the hope that one’s journey through life is both gentle and fulfilling, surrounded by supportive friends and a rich legacy of love. Please read it as a way to honor Jeanne’s Irish heritage and the love she had for her faith and family.

Traditional Irish Blessing

May the road rise to meet you,

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face,

The rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

May God be with you and bless you;

May you see your children’s children.

May you be poor in misfortune,

Rich in blessings,

May you know nothing but happiness

From this day forward.

May the road rise to meet you

May the wind be always at your back

May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home

And may the hand of a friend always be near.

May green be the grass you walk on,

May blue be the skies above you,

May pure be the joys that surround you,

May true be the hearts that love you.