TCV Staff

TCV Staff

Jean Coleman Gaines

On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Jean M. Coleman- Gaines peacefully entered eternal rest at her home, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on August 8, 1959, Jean was the youngest daughter of Celia W. Coleman. Raised in Louisa County alongside her eight siblings, she was instilled with the enduring values of faith, family, and hard work that shaped every aspect of her life. At an early age, she accepted Christ and became a devoted member of Watch Tower Baptist Church, where she began a lifelong journey of faith and service to the Lord. Following her graduation from Louisa County High School, Jean entered the workforce with determination and ambition. Her commitment to excellence and unwavering perseverance led her to a career with Hanover County. Through her dedication and expertise, she rose to the position of System Administrator with the Department of Social Services, where she faithfully served for 30 years before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, integrity, and service. In the early 1980s, Jean met the love of her life, Cornell A. Gaines and before long they were inseparable. Within two years, they were united in marriage and lovingly blended their family, creating a home filled with faith, laughter, and love. Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cornell A. Gaines; her mother, Celia W. Coleman; and her brother, James E. Coleman Jr. She leaves to cherish her loving memory, her devoted children: Octavius Gaines (Linda) of Richmond, VA; Lashawn Coleman of Charlottesville, VA; Shalier Gaines of Mineral, VA; and Parres Gaines of Henrico, VA. She also leaves five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; one goddaughter; seven siblings; eight brothers & sisters-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Though she’ll be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that she’s at peace and resting in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. A Homegoing Celebration for Jean will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, July 26th at Rising Sun Baptist Church in Mineral, Virginia. Condolence maybe offered to the family at www.ddwatsonlouisa. com.

Learning to serve

The Louisa Volunteer Fire Department recently worked with the Future First Responders group on learning about rural water supply. The group meets once a month to participate in Fire-EMS training and accepts members aged 13-18.

Stuart Swift Property

Can you help us identify where this home is located in this undated photo? If you recognize the house, landmarks, or surrounding area, please share your details with the Louisa County Historical Society. Every clue helps us gather more information about this historical home!

Food Not Bombs chapter distributes free food weekly

For over three years, volunteers with Louisa’s Food Not Bombs chapter have gathered every Sunday afternoon to distribute free fresh produce to anyone who needs it. Food Not Bombs is an international network of volunteer-run groups that gather surplus food and distribute it freely while advocating that resources be directed toward meeting human needs rather than military spending.

Blessed Assurance – Friendship

Ihave been blessed to have many friends over the course of my life. I have very few “close” friends – those are the chums from my youth, the ones with whom I grew. Common wisdom states that it gets harder to make and keep friends as we age. I have not found that to be true.