Virginia Vitale, 85, of St. Louis, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2026. She was born on May 12, 1940, in St. Louis to the late Vincent James and Ida Cira Lanasa.

Virginia's life was rooted in family, faith, and tradition. She cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren and took great pride in preserving her family's ancestry and stories. Virginia spent a large portion of her life at Soulard market with her father and later husband Sam. Virginia's Stand was known for selling quality produce for a good price. She had a loyal customer base whom she treated as family. Her customer base was an array of restaurants, caterer's, and everyday folk like you and me. After the business was sold she went on to work in the service industry serving at a variety of service jobs well into her 70's. A gifted home cook and baker, Virginia was known for her love of food and her keen eye as a self-proclaimed food critic-especially when it came to selecting the very best produce.

She held dear memories of going to the show and out to eat with her father, spending time with her cousins, and dancing through different seasons of life. Virginia had a way of leaving an impression on everyone she met-whether through gentle encouragement or a well-earned scolding, her words came from a place of deep love and care.

One of her greatest accomplishments was raising faithful children and instilling in them the values that guided her own life. Through her devotion to family and her unmistakable presence, Virginia touched countless lives and will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and enduring influence.

Her legacy lives on in the many hearts she shaped and the traditions she lovingly passed down.

Virginia is preceded in death by her husband, Sam S Vitale and one son, Douglas Vitale. She is survived by her children, Barbara Vitale, Jeffrey Vitale (Debbie), Christine Wooden (Tony), Mary Jo Manestar (John), Angela Hall (Chris), and Rosanne Kay (Donny); sixteen grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00AM-11:30AM on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Jay B. Smith Funeral Home in Fenton with a Celebration of Life to be held at 11:30 AM

The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.JayBSmith.com.