Celebrating the Life of Virginia “Gina” McCuen: A Beacon of Hope and Leadership in Lexington
Lexington has lost a shining star with the passing of Virginia A. McCuen, lovingly known as “Gina,” who peacefully left us on September 15, 2024, after a brave battle with Multiple Sclerosis. At the age of 81, she surrounded herself with family, shining with the love she received and the legacy she built.
Gina’s memorial service was held at the charming St. Stephens Lutheran Church on September 28, where friends and family gathered to celebrate her remarkable journey in this world. A lively visitation followed the service, allowing everyone to share stories and memories that encapsulated her vibrant spirit.
One Woman, Many Titles
Gina was more than just a name; she was a force of nature. As a female business owner, community activist, and dedicated family member, she was an inspiration to everyone around her. With a sense of purpose, she’d always seek the best not just for herself but for those who walked alongside her on life’s journey. Her perspective on life painted her as a true role model, particularly for women in business.
In 1982, Gina opened her Snelling and Snelling franchise in Lexington, a moment that marked the beginning of her impactful career. Defying the odds, she ventured into entrepreneurship and built a reputable business, which is now spearheaded by her beloved daughter, Elizabeth Smith Trenbeath. Despite facing skepticism about the potential of business in Lexington, Gina pressed on and established the Victoria Square, an impressive 8,000 square-foot commercial complex, during the late ‘80s.
A Legacy of Achievement
Gina’s accomplishments were nothing short of extraordinary. Her Snelling franchise consistently ranked among the top 100 out of 300 locations, which is a testament to her hard work and dedication. Over her lifetime, she successfully connected more than 1,700 people with job opportunities that garnered a staggering total of $28 million in salaries. Her work transcended conventional business success, as she was honored as the Regional Manager of the Year and inducted into the Million Dollar Club for her outstanding job placements.
Her roots in community service ran deep, beginning with her role as a career counselor at the University of Georgia. After moving to Columbia in 1968, she became actively involved in numerous civic and cultural organizations. From her role with the Richland County Family Court to membership in the Lexington Kiwanis Club, where she became the first woman to serve as president, her commitment to community service never wavered.
A Life of Love and Faith
Born on February 10, 1943, in Farmville, N.C., Gina cherished the bonds she built throughout her life, especially those formed during her high school years. She earned her master’s degree in guidance and counseling and became a lifelong member of the Tri Sigma sorority, representing her college spirit in everything she did, even earning the Golden Violet Award for 50 years of dedication.
Aside from her business prowess, Gina was known for her deep faith, attending both Lexington United Methodist Church and St. Stephens Lutheran Church, where she served as a Stephen Minister. Her spiritual life was the anchor of her existence, guiding her approach to both professional and personal endeavors.
Family and Friends Remember Her
Gina is survived by her sister, Mary Allen Steinbauer; daughters, Elizabeth and Virginia “Ginger” Smith Davis; stepson Shannon Smith; and a host of beloved grandchildren and extended family members. Family meant everything to her, and she poured her heart into nurturing those relationships, even while juggling her colossal professional responsibilities.
Though Gina has left this earthly plane, her legacy lives on through her countless contributions to the community, the lives she changed, and the family she adored. In honor of her memory, donations can be made to St. Stephens Lutheran Church or the South Carolina Ballet.
