Sept. 23-Mrs. Fern Hylton Via, of Critz, VA passed away on Sunday at her home She and her husband, John, operated Via's Orchard, near Critz, VA. This is the farm where the Virginia State Peach Festival was originally held.

The first Peach Festival was held at the J. P. Via Orchard of Critz, August 10, 1988. In case you had not heard, Mr. John Via’s wife has passed away. Mrs. Fern Via and her husband were a critical part of the beginning of the celebration. It is sad to see this happening. As far as I know the orchard no longer operates. Tom Bishop,Patrick County Chamber Obituary Mrs. Fern Hylton Via, age 94 of Critz, passed away Sunday, September 23, 2012, at her home. She was born in Patrick County on January 14, 1918 to the late Elijah and Beulah Stone Hylton. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Via was preceded in death by a brother, Bernice Hylton and a sister, Elva H. Hylton. She was of the Primitive Baptist faith, and had retired from DuPont with 34 years of service. She was a wonderful wife, good business partner, loved to work with her husband at Via’s Orchard; and enjoyed working in her flower and vegetable gardens. Mrs. Via is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, John P. Via of the home and nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at Moody Funeral Home in Stuart with Rev. Dr. Ricky Atkins officiating. Burial will follow in Old Spoon Creek Primitive Baptist Church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home, and other times at the home. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.