Virginia Ruth Chance Boyette

Virginia Chance Boyette

October 29, 1934 – July 8, 2026

Virginia Chance Boyette, 91 years young, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, in her hometown of Lake City, Florida, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on October 29, 1934, in Wauchula, Florida, to Staten Chance and Ruth Neal Chance, Virginia lived a life rooted in faith, family, and selfless service. She was the beloved wife of the late David Huey "Buddy" Boyette, with whom she shared 63 wonderful years of marriage before his passing in 2015.

Virginia worked alongside Buddy on the family farm for many years while raising their family. She also worked for the United States Postal Service before retiring. Her greatest calling, however, was serving the Lord through music. For more than 50 years, she faithfully served as pianist at Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, where her gifted hands and faithful heart blessed generations through worship services, weddings, funerals, and countless special occasions.

She had a gift for sewing and especially loved quilting, creating beautiful handmade treasures that will forever remind her family of the love stitched into every piece. An exceptional baker and wonderful cook, her kitchen was a place where family gathered, and no one ever left hungry. She also enjoyed card games and lively rounds of Rummikub with family and friends.

Known simply as “Granny” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and “Aunt Vee” to her nieces and nephews, she was a constant source of love, encouragement, wisdom, and unwavering support. Whether through a warm hug, words of gentle advice, a home-cooked meal, or simply being present, she made each one feel deeply loved. The memories she created with her family will be treasured for generations, and her legacy of faith, kindness, and unconditional love will continue to live on through each of them.

Virginia is survived by her children: Kathy (Ron) Clayton of Sarasota, Florida; Glenn (Donna) Boyette, Diane (Bill) Hiers, and Hal (Vickie) Boyette, all of Lake City, Florida.

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Melanie (Brad) Fasold, John Clayton, Michael (Stacey) Clayton, Shannon (Brad) Ball, Adam (Elsa) Boyette, Aaron Boyette, Stephani (Mike) Gilbreath, Stacy Allbritton, Candace (Rocky) Solomon, Kristen (Randy) Dauzat, Lindsey Wayne, and Amy Boyette; her beloved great-grandchildren: Taylor Dean Boyette, Avery, Prestyn and Wyatt Boyette, Harmony and London Gilbreath, Keaton (MacKenley) Byrd, Parker Crapps, Peyton and Korbin Dauzat, Tanner and Timber Wayne, and Brody Ball; along with many nieces, nephews, and other extended family members, and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Huey "Buddy" Boyette; her parents, Staten Chance and Ruth Neal Chance; and other loved ones who welcomed her into eternal peace.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Virginia's longtime caregiver, Carmen Hernandez, whose loving heart, gentle spirit, and extraordinary devotion brought comfort, joy, and dignity to her every day.

Virginia's life was a beautiful testimony of unwavering faith, humble service, and unconditional love. Through every hymn she played, every meal she prepared, every quilt she stitched, and every life she touched, she reflected God's love in quiet and meaningful ways. She was deeply loved by her family, treasured by her church, and admired by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial service will be conducted on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM at Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, with Pastor John Kerry officiating. Visitation with the family will be held following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Haven Hospice Lake City, at 6037 W US HWY 90 Lake City, FL 32055, or Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund at 4709 SW State Rd 47 Lake City, FL 32024. Arrangements are under the direction of GATEWAY-FOREST LAWN FUNERAL HOME, 3596 S US Hwy 441, Lake City, FL 32025. Please leave words of comfort for the family at www.gatewayforestlawn.com.