Roberta Naranjo, education advocate, dies

Published 10:05 am Wednesday, January 4, 2017

RICHMOND
The family of Roberta Lee Tyner Naranjo — who served on the Southampton County Public School Board for more than 40 years — has announced that she died on Saturday at her home in Richmond, with her loved ones around her.

During her time on the board, the 85-year-old had served in various capacities and on committees, and had been instrumental in establishing three new schools.

Roberta was also a strong proponent of the arts, including the Walter Cecil Rawls Library and Rawls Museum Arts. Her family reported that she could play the accordion, concertina and piano.

With her husband, Dr. Jorge Naranjo, they also established a family medical practice in Boykins, with her managing the office.

The couple were devoted members of St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Franklin, where “Bobbie,” as she was known by many, served as a lay minister, catechism instructor and parish council member.

The recognitions she’s received for service to church and community are numerous. One example is the commendation in 2014 by the Virginia General Assembly in House Joint Resolution 5115.

The family will announce funeral arrangements later this week.