Williamsburg, VA, October 25, 2025
News Summary
The community of Williamsburg, VA, is deeply mourning the loss of Joanne Christian Modlin, a beloved educator and community leader known for her extensive contributions to education and active community involvement. Modlin’s legacy of service, dedication to teaching, and commitment to local initiatives is remembered fondly as she leaves behind a family, friends, and countless students impacted by her work.
Williamsburg, VA – The community is mourning the passing of Joanne Christian Modlin, an esteemed educator and community leader, who died on October 23, 2025, at Williamsburg Landing in Williamsburg, VA. Modlin was renowned for her contributions to the education system and her active involvement in local community initiatives.
Born on April 7, 1933, in Bristol, VA, she spent the majority of her life in Smithfield, VA. Modlin graduated from Smithfield High School before attending Randolph-Macon Woman’s College. Her academic excellence continued at UNC-Chapel Hill, where she graduated with Phi Beta Kappa honors and became a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority.
Throughout her career, Modlin made significant contributions to education, teaching high school in both Smithfield and Virginia Beach, and also working as a seventh-grade teacher in Hinesville, GA. In addition to her teaching career, she was active in the real estate industry for many years.
Modlin’s community service extended to several local organizations. She was a long-time member and chairperson of the Smithfield Historic and Architectural Review Committee and served on the board of Ivy Hill Cemetery. Furthermore, she was recognized as a member emeritus of the Smithfield Shakespeare Class after over forty years of participation, reflecting her deep commitment to the arts and education.
Joanne Modlin is preceded in death by her parents, Joe David and Alice Luter Christian, as well as her brother Robert Christian and her great-granddaughter Elizabeth Naomi Arnold. She is survived by her husband of seventy years, Charles Robert Modlin, her two sons and their wives, Robert Christian Modlin and Paitra Moore Modlin; Brian Davis Modlin and Nancy Spady Modlin; her grandchildren, Charles Christian Modlin, Christina Grace Modlin, and John Devin Arnold (who is married to Hannah Bradshaw Arnold); as well as three great-grandsons, Phineas Brock Arnold, Woodrow Hundley Grey Arnold, and Lawrence Alexander Arnold. Additionally, she is survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law: William L. and Susan Abbott Christian; Dr. Joe D. and Ann Claborne Pope Christian; John G. and Harriet Ziegler Christian; and Cynthia Rotty Christian, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
To honor her memory, a private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Western Tidewater Free Clinic located at 2019 Meade Parkway, Suffolk, VA 23434, or to a charity of choice. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.
Background Context
Joanne Christian Modlin’s life exemplified dedication to education, community, and family. She leaves behind a legacy that will impact generations to come, not only through her personal achievements and familial connections but also through her contributions that shaped the educational landscape of Virginia.
Key Features of Joanne Christian Modlin’s Life
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 7, 1933 |
| Place of Birth | Bristol, VA |
| Date of Passing | October 23, 2025 |
| Education | Smithfield High School, Randolph-Macon Woman’s College, UNC-Chapel Hill (Phi Beta Kappa) |
| Teaching Locations | Smithfield, Virginia Beach, Hinesville, GA |
| Community Involvement | Smithfield Historic and Architectural Review Committee, Ivy Hill Cemetery Board, Smithfield Shakespeare Class |
| Survived by | Husband, sons, grandchildren, great-grandsons, siblings, and numerous relatives |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Little’s Funeral Home: Joanne Modlin Obituary
- Wikipedia: Joanne Modlin
- Tukios: Memorial Video for Joanne Modlin
- Google Search: Joanne Christian Modlin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Joanne Modlin
- Google News: Joanne Christian Modlin
- Google Search: Smithfield Historic and Architectural Review Committee
- Google Scholar: UNC-Chapel Hill Phi Beta Kappa
- Randolph College: Alumna Joanne Modlin
- Wikipedia: Smithfield VA
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
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