SALEM – Ms. Virginia (Thorner) Sweet, 96 of Salem, passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2023 at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Marblehead, Virginia was the daughter of the late Ralph and Elizabeth Paisley (Pedrick) Thorner. She was raised and educated in Marblehead, graduating from Marblehead High School in 1944. She continued her education at Burdett Secretary School, receiving her associate degree.

As a young girl, Virginia learned the value of hard work and dedication while starting her working career at Winslow's making potato chips. Following her college graduation, Virginia started her professional career working in administration for the Salem Chamber of Commerce where she was the secretary from 1956 until 1968. She would spend the remainder of her working career with Gene Murray Dance Studio, handling administrative work for the company until the time of her retirement.

Virginia was ahead of her time and a true young soul at heart. She loved to learn new things and teach new things. Throughout life, she enjoyed the art of dancing and was very active at the dance studio, taking ballet, modern dance, jazz and tap. She was musically talented, playing the piano and artistic as well, creating beautiful oil paintings. She loved history, all types of music and being by the ocean, especially when visiting her favorite spot, Winter Island Park in Salem. Virginia was extremely smart, staying active for most of her life and truly had a strong will to live and lots of love for life. She will be deeply missed by her loving family and many dear friends and neighbors.

Surviving Virginia are her children, James Sweet and his wife, Ellen of Peabody, John Pedrick Sweet and his wife, Nancy of Seabrook, NH, Denise Correale of West Peabody and David A. Sweet and his wife, Stephanie of Salem; her grandchildren, Sharon, Lauren, Brett, Susan, Kayla, Sarah and Dylan and many great-grandchildren.

ARRANGEMENTS: At the request of the family, all services are private. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of one's choice in Virginia's memory. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.