Edith Gilliam Raby

Edith Gilliam Raby passed away on July 8, 2026, after a brief illness.

She was born on January 3, 1945, to the late Quincy and Elva Gilliam of Smithfield, Virginia. She was also preceded in death by her husband Richard Raby, and her brother Quincy Gilliam, daughter Kim Yeoman Mullis, and grandson Eric Laughrey. She is survived by her sister Susan Dileanis (Peter), son Brian Yeoman (Kathy), grandchildren Brandon Yeoman and Katelyn Yeoman and her sister-in-law Sarah Gilliam.

Edith was born in Smithfield and was a lifelong member of Christ Episcopal Church, Smithfield, Virginia.

She graduated from Old Dominion University and worked for IBM as a sales representative.

Edith lived a life defined by faith, service, love, and quiet strength. While she enjoyed a successful corporate career with IBM, her greatest fulfillment came from helping others. She found her true calling with the Florida Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, where she worked in job placement, helping individuals with disabilities find meaningful employment and independence. She took great pride in making a difference in the lives of others.

Her faith was the foundation of her life. As a devoted deacon at Christ Episcopal Church, Smithfield, Virginia, Edith faithfully served with compassion, humility, and a generous spirit. She believed that caring for others was one of life’s greatest callings.

She was a member of the Possum Hollow Ruritans, United Daughters of the Confederacy, Daughters of the American Revolution, Episcopal Daughters of the King, and Eastern Star.

Above all else, Edith’s greatest joy was her family. Her sister Susan (Peter) and her son, Brian (Kathy) and grandchildren, Brandon and Katelyn, were the light of her life. She treasured every milestone, every accomplishment, and every adventure they shared, delighting in following their lives and celebrating them from near or far. She was endlessly proud of each of them, and nothing brought her greater happiness than being their mother, sister and grandmother.

Edith also cherished the friendships that enriched her life, especially the loving care and companionship of her dear friend, Martha Underwood and her cousin, Ann Gilliam Lovell and family, whose kindness meant so much to her.

Among Edith’s favorite memories was the time she spent traveling and visiting with her good friend Macon Walton. Another special memory was a visit to the mountains with her sister where she sat quietly on the deck of a cabin and, for the first time, gazed upon the brilliance of the Milky Way stretching across the night sky. She often spoke of that moment with wonder and gratitude. It became a beautiful reminder of the awe she found in God’s creation and the simple blessings that made life so meaningful.

Edith will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her servant’s heart, her gentle kindness, and the love she poured into her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the people she helped, and the family she adored.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.

Services will be conducted August 1, 2026, at Christ Episcopal Church, 111 South Church Street, Smithfield, Virginia at 10:30AM, followed by a reception. Parking across from church off Cedar Street.

Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com