The Shadow
COVINGTON, VA. (VR) – Marian Paxton has spent years advocating for local veterans. Now, that service has earned her recognition; during its Dec. 23 meeting at Cucci’s, Modern Woodmen of America Chapter 11393 named Paxton its 2025 Hometown Hero.
The chapter annually honors an individual based on volunteerism and community service. Paxton serves as president of the Curtis A. Smith Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1033 Auxiliary and regularly visits patients at the Salem VA Medical Center. She also coordinates greeting card drives for veterans at the VA and in local nursing homes.
Paxton oversees the Wall of Valor project, which recognizes local veterans through an exhibit at the Covington Post Office. She was also instrumental in bringing The Wall That Heals to Covington in October 2024. The traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial remained in the city for six days and was visited by more than 1,000 students from Alleghany, Bath, and Rockbridge counties.
Josh Taylor, executive director of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, said Paxton’s commitment has made a lasting impact across the region.
“Marian Paxton’s impact on our community cannot be overstated. As the Chamber’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year, she exemplifies selfless service, leadership, and a deep commitment to the Alleghany Highlands,” Taylor said. “She gives her time, energy, and heart to everything she touches, and our region is stronger because of her dedication. Her involvement across countless organizations, including the Chamber, paired with her unwavering support of veterans, makes her a trusted leader and an invaluable asset to our community.”
In addition to her work with veterans, Paxton volunteers with the Alleghany Highlands Arts Council and works part-time at the Alleghany Historical Society’s restored C&O Railway Depot.
Paxton received a certificate of appreciation and a floral arrangement from the chapter. Modern Woodmen also presented a $100 donation to the charity of her choice, which she designated for the VFW Post 1033 Auxiliary.
