News Summary
Alice Marguerite Cahill Birdseye, a cherished community leader from Williamsburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully, leaving a legacy of family dedication, faith, and service. Known for her warmth and involvement in local organizations, Alice was a nurturing figure who inspired many through her community service, crafts, and gardening. She leaves behind a loving family, including her sons and daughters, along with nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in her honor.
Williamsburg, Virginia—Alice Marguerite Cahill Birdseye, a respected community leader known for her dedication to family and service, passed away peacefully on September 19, 2025, at the age of 95. Her death marks the loss of a beloved figure who significantly impacted her community through her unwavering commitment to various pursuits and her deep faith.
Alice was born on November 30, 1929, in New Haven, New York. Throughout her life, she devoted herself to being a loving homemaker and raising her family. Her household was often characterized by warmth, generosity, and an abundance of love. Alice was not only a nurturing figure; she was also a skilled craftsman, displaying her talents through cooking, quilting, crocheting, and upholstering.
Her deep faith played a fundamental role in her life. An active member of both James River Baptist Church and Glencarlyn Road Baptist Church, Alice participated in numerous church activities. She was involved in Bible studies, led youth groups, and was a member of the church choir, inspiring many with her passion for lifelong learning and her commitment to teaching others.
Alice’s interests extended beyond her family and faith. She was an avid reader and an accomplished embroiderer, and her passion for gardening was evident in her well-tended plants. As a keen bowler, she also enjoyed friendly competitions. Her membership in several historical societies, including the Daughters of the American Revolution and Colonial Dames of the 17th Century, showcased her love for antiquing and connecting with her heritage.
In the political realm, Alice was an active participant in the Republican Party of Virginia, where she contributed her time and efforts to community service. Her dedication to youth development was reflected in her roles as a troop leader for both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, as well as her volunteering as a substitute teacher in local schools. Through these efforts, she became a well-respected leader and mentor to many young people.
Alice enjoyed social activities as well, frequently playing Bridge with friends, showcasing both her strategic capabilities and her warmth towards others. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer Hawley Havens Birdseye, along with her brothers Patrick and Joseph, her sister Elizabeth, and her parents Donald Herbert Cahill and Alice Marguerite Jevens.
She is survived by her sons, James Havens Birdseye and Donald Kippen Birdseye; her daughters, Sarah Elizabeth Vaas and Susan Marie Rodenberg; and her legacy includes nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. In honor of Alice’s contributions, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in lieu of flowers.
Overall, Alice Marguerite Cahill Birdseye is remembered as a testament to community values, faith, and the pursuit of one’s passions, leaving a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Alice Marguerite Cahill Birdseye Obituary
- Wikipedia: Community Service
- Dignity Memorial: Edward Cahill Obituary
- Google Search: Alice Marguerite Cahill
- WWNY: Virginia Jane Hubbard Cahill Obituary
- Google Scholar: Community Leadership
- Poughkeepsie Journal: Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Values
- Snyder Funeral Homes: Frederick Criswell Stephens Obituary
- Google News: Alice Cahill
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.
