WHITE STONE—Elizabeth “Libby” Stuart McMann Southmayd of White Stone died on July 25, 2022.
She was born on February 28, 1941, to Elizabeth Anderson McMann and Ira Hathaway Stuart McMann.
She was preceded in death by her sons, Peter B. Southmayd II and Christopher Ira Southmayd; and her sister, Susan McMann.
She is survived by her husband, of 60 years, Col. Peter B. Southmayd, USMC (Ret.); her daughter-in-law, Theresa Southmayd; and her brother, John McMann and his wife, Ellen.
Libby attended Randolph-Macon Women’s College and graduated from George Washington University with a degree in art history and theory. She loved gardening, mahjongg and travel and enjoyed a wonderfully diverse life.
Her husband always claimed she was the ideal military wife as she made each change of duty station move an adventure for her sons and never complained when she was left without her husband for nine of the 27 years he served. And husband Pete always believed and said that his Libby was the glue that held their family together especially during his numerous absences. She has a unique zest for life that she lovingly imparted to her family and to all who knew her.
Before retiring to the Northern Neck, Libby worked in the floral design and interior design businesses. While living in Columbia, Maryland, she established her own floral design business, “Accents in Flowers,” that worked with real estate businesses in furnishing model homes in Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, areas.
Upon moving to White Stone in 1989, Libby became a member of the Rappahannock Garden Club and volunteered at the Lancaster Community Library and Historic Christ Church, where she helped established the gift shop. She later, with partner Tina Powell, founded and ran Salmagundi’s which was a very popular antiques and gift store in Irvington, for seven years.
Libby was also active in Grace Episcopal Church where she served on numerous committees and proudly served several times as the head of the Holy Tabernacle Food Bank Committee. She always felt very strongly that no person, especially children, should ever have to go to bed hungry.
Lastly, a special thanks to Hospice of Virginia, a gift from God, as is Dr. Joseph Bessler and his staff. Libby’s wish for everyone is best summed up in an Irish blessing: “May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. May the rain fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.”
To celebrate Libby’s life, contributions may be made to Hospice of Virginia or a food bank of one’s choice.
Currie Funeral Home LLC of Kilmarnock handled the arrangements.
