Virginia Helen Batson (née Thompson)

Ginny was daughter to Arthur Eugene Thompson and Helen Elizabeth Thompson (née Brown), and little sister to three older brothers, Donald, Eugene and Robert. Though she was born in California, her formative years were spent in El Paso, TX. She was thrilled by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, but always considered herself a proud Texan.

Ginny graduated from Compton College in 1951 and was a member of Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority during her time there. In 1953 she met and married the love of her life, Gerald W. Batson. Sadly, he predeceased her in 1993, but they led an active life together for 40 years. They travelled the world for adventure as well as for his career as an Air Force pilot. After living in Bellevue for many years, raising 3 children, they retired on Whidbey Island where she would say “we really found our place in the sun”. They enjoyed many activities together, boating, golfing, dancing, playing music, bowling, gardening, renovating their house on Whidbey Island, and spending time with a tight circle of friends. Above all they loved to laugh together.

After Jerry’s early passing, Ginny returned to Bellevue to build the next phase of her life. Fiercely independent, she continued travelling on her own, planning international trips at least once a year, and seeing all she could of our beautiful country. Spontaneous “road trips” with friends were not uncommon (though her family would have liked to know about them). She was active in Bellevue Women’s club for many years and was an avid bridge player. She belonged to 3 weekly bridge groups until recent months when macular degeneration caused her to begin a search for alternative activities. She loved her volunteer work at Overlake Hospital which she did well into her 80’s. She began organ lessons in her 80’s to learn some of the music Jerry used to play as a part of the nightly bedtime ritual for the family. She treasured spending time with her grandchildren with sleepovers, baking cookies, attending Mariners games and many years cheering them on from the bleachers for their numerous sports teams.

Ginny’s spirit was indomitable. If she was told something could not be done, or was too challenging to try, she would quickly prove precisely the opposite. Ginny loved people and it could be said that she never met a stranger. Her authentic interest in others could draw out detailed information from fellow passengers in short elevator rides.

She was a “mama bear” and protector of family.

Ginny is survived by her children Thomas Batson, Marcus Batson (Liz), Barbara Batson Ford (Tim), grandchildren Alexander Batson, Lucas Ford, Isabella Batson, and Kendall Ford. She also leaves behind her loving niece Connie Ball (Jim), nephew Joseph Thompson (Carol), and cousin Susan Nelson (Gord), as well as great nieces and nephews. She will live on in our loving memories of her and in our hearts forever.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Overlake Hospital in her memory.

Please refer to Sunset Hills Memorial Park online obituary to submit condolences and any pictures.