News Summary
The Lanexa community mourns the loss of two cherished residents, Virginia Cottrell Linkenauger and Scott “Spud” Bennett. Virginia, a former educator and community volunteer, passed away peacefully at 95, leaving a legacy of kindness. Scott, known for his love of life and music, died at 57. Both will be fondly remembered for their contributions to the community and the impact they made on many lives.
Lanexa, VA – Two beloved residents of Lanexa, Virginia, Virginia Cottrell Linkenauger and Scott “Spud” Bennett, have recently passed away, leaving behind lasting legacies that touched the lives of many in the community.
Virginia Cottrell Linkenauger, 95, died peacefully at her home on September 24, 2025. Known for her gentle grace and generosity, Virginia positively impacted countless lives during her lifetime as a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, wife, sister, and teacher. She was a longtime educator in the WJCC Public School System and served as Head of the English Department at Lafayette High School, earning the respect and admiration of her students and fellow educators alike.
Born on July 27, 1930, in Richmond, Virginia, Virginia grew up in Norfolk and attended Maury High School, where she participated in chorus and synchronized swimming. She furthered her education at the College of William and Mary, graduating with a B.S. degree in English in 1952. Virginia also obtained a Master’s in Education in 1968 and was a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. She met her husband, Mont, while attending William and Mary, and they enjoyed 49 years of marriage until his passing.
Virginia was passionate about reading, playing bridge, solving crossword puzzles, and sailing on the Chesapeake Bay with her husband. After retiring from teaching, she dedicated her time to volunteering with various organizations, including FISH, Meals on Wheels, and the Woman’s Club of Toano. Virginia is survived by her brother, Benjamin G. Cottrell, IV, and his wife Rachel; her sons, Mont and David (Diana); daughter-in-law Debbie; ten grandchildren; and sixteen great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Mont, her son James, and her parents.
A service to celebrate Virginia’s life is scheduled for 2 PM on October 1, 2025, at Williamsburg United Methodist Church, followed by a reception at the William and Mary Alumni House. Memorial contributions may be made to the William and Mary Athletic Impact Fund to support the Mont M. and Virginia Cottrell Linkenauger Sports Medicine Endowment.
Scott “Spud” Bennett, aged 57, passed away at his home on May 11, 2025. Born on October 31, 1967, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Scott was known for his kind-hearted nature, quick wit, and easy-going attitude. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Paula Z. Bennett, as well as his brother-in-law Tommy Ziesmann, his wife Pam, niece Kaitlin Ziesmann, and brother Chriss Bennett.
Scott was a devoted pet owner, having cared for a variety of animals, including a Tennessee Walker Bouvier, a late Shetland Pony named Twilight, a Labrador named Jocoby, a cat named Blackjack, as well as many hens and a rooster named Bresse. His love for life was reflected in his passion for punk rock music, playing guitar, skateboarding, surfing, snowboarding, and riding motorcycles and bicycles.
A memorial service for Scott will take place at 1:00 PM on May 25 at Mount Vernon UMC in Toano, Virginia. In honor of his memory, memorial donations can be made to the VCU Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center or to Mount Vernon UMC.
Both Virginia and Scott will be fondly remembered by their families, friends, and the Lanexa community for the joy and love they shared during their lives, leaving a legacy that will endure.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Scott “Spud” Bennett
- Wikipedia: Lanexa, Virginia
- Dignity Memorial: Scott Bennett
- Google Search: Virginia Cottrell Linkenauger
- Daily Press: Betty Coppedge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
