Virginia was born in the Mt. Lebanon Community and was the daughter of the late Milburn Shirley and Lula Mae Hamilton Leathers. She was preceded in death by her brother Floyd Leathers. She was a graduate of Dickson High School. Virginia was a member of the Mt. Lebanon Methodist Church.
Virginia was a lifelong resident of Dickson County sharing her cooking talents with her community and surrounding areas. Food service was her life, and she did it very well. She and her late husband, Houston, formerly owned and operated Dickson County’s famous Buddy’s Restaurant for many years, offering the best catfish anywhere around. The giant Buddy Burger was unforgettable and not to forget their super large, sweet, iced tea. Buddy’s Restaurant was one of the very few locally owned restaurants in Dickson County for many years. She loved to work, and she loved early hours at the restaurant getting it open for breakfast and serving her fellow customers. Her customers were always considered as her family.
Virginia was a person who always welcomed everyone. She always met folks with that beautiful smile and a kind heart. She showed Dickson County what that old-fashioned Southern hospitality was like.
Virginia is survived by her children, Dan Houston Ray Jr. of Dickson, TN, Mark Ray of Dickson, TN, Danette Ray of Dickson, TN and Terri Harris and her husband Russell of Charlotte, TN., her sister Linda Gentry. Also surviving are her 9 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
Virginia requested no formal funeral or visitation. She will join her family that went before her at the Mt. Lebanon Cemetery.
