Nellie Christian Opie

NELLIE C. OPIE STAUNTON, VA Nellie Christian Opie, 93, widow of Hierome Lindsay Opie, Jr., died Thursday, June 27, 2013, at her residence. She was born on October 30, 1919, in Richmond, a daughter of the late Andrew Dunscomb and Nellie Rennolds Christian of Richmond. She lived there until her marriage in 1945 to Major Hierome L. Opie, Jr. of the 1st Marine Division when she moved to Quantico and later to Staunton. There, Hierome served his community with distinction as General Manager, President, and Publisher of The Leader Papers. She attended St. Catherine's School in Richmond, graduating from St. Timothy's School, Catonsville, MD, and then attending the branch of William and Mary College in Richmond. She was a member of the Junior League of Richmond, The Woman's Club, and the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America in Virginia. She was an active communicant of Trinity Episcopal Church, Staunton. She served for many years as a Sunday school teacher, was on the altar guild for 11 years, led a combined exercise-Bible study class and served in many other capacities. In both 1980 and 1985, she received from the Mental Health Association of Augusta County its annual certificate for outstanding volunteer service in the area of mental health. She is also a former member of the Augusta Garden Club. For fifteen years, she and her husband enjoyed sailing and spending time in their cottage on the Rappahannock River near the Chesapeake Bay. Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Eleanor and Michael Seiferth of San Antonio, TX; a son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Thomas Ranson and Judy Opie of North Wales, PA; five grandchildren, Gregory, Grace, Zachary, Elena, and Jesse Opie; a sister, Archer Christian Burke of Richmond; seven nieces and nephews; and eight great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, Andrew H. Christian. A graveside service will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 29, 2013 in Thornrose Cemetery by the Rev. Shelby Owen. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 a.m. in Trinity Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Trinity Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 208, Staunton, VA 24401 or to Focus on the Family, Colorado Springs, CO 80995-0353. Henry Funeral Home is entrusted with the arrangements.