September 19, 2025, 96, Goldsboro —

Virginia Lee Braswell Rouse, daughter of the late Robert and Maybelle Braswell, was born on July 13, 1929, in Goldsboro, North Carolina. She peacefully departed this life on September 19, 2025, at UNC Wayne Memorial Hospital.

The youngest of six children, Virginia was educated in the Goldsboro City Schools and was a proud member of the Dillard High School Class of 1948, where she played the clarinet in the school band.

Virginia accepted Christ at an early age and remained faithful throughout her life. In her adult years, she became a devoted member of Goldsboro Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, where she joyfully served on various choirs until the age of ninety.

After finishing high school she met and married the late James Thomas Rouse. Their union was blessed with seven children, along with one stepson. Virginia was the very definition of faith and strength—enduring many challenges with grace, never wavering in her trust in God, and never complaining.

She was preceded in death by her husband, James Thomas Rouse; her youngest daughter, Joyce Renee Rouse; two brothers, Joseph and Farrior Braswell; and two sisters, Seretha Chestnut and Rosa Robertson.

Cherishing her memory are her children: Thomas of Goldsboro, Donald (Linda) of Dudley, James of Kingsland, GA, Linda Faye of Durham, Maxine of Dudley, and Daisy Campbell (Weston) of Glastonbury, CT; one stepson, William Davis of Goldsboro; 22 grandchildren; 49 great-grandchildren; 14 great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Mother Mabel Austin of Goldsboro; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends.

Virginia’s legacy of love, faith, and resilience will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Professional services are entrusted to McIntyre Funeral Home, LLC.