Virginia Ann Castillo

Virginia Castillo passed away peacefully on March 7, 2021. She was 91 years old. Virginia was born in Milpitas, CA in 1929. She was the youngest daughter of Rafael and Cecilia and affectionately known by her most memorable teacher as “Ginger.” Virginia attended San Jose High School and was involved in a variety of activities. She enjoyed singing with her classmates, playing impromptu softball before school, and learning sewing and flower arranging in home economics.

After graduating high school, Virginia worked at a fruit cannery. In 1949, she married World War II Veteran and childhood friend, Frank Castillo. She was married to Frank for 34 years before his death in 1983. They lived in San Jose and raised five children. They highly valued education and made it possible for their children to attend college. She was extremely proud of all her children and their accomplishments. In the late 70’s she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her family rallied around her, and after surgery and radiation, she went into remission and lived the rest of her life as a cancer survivor.

In her spare time, Virginia enjoyed reading, watching American and international murder mysteries, and being with her family. She always had a book at hand. She helped raise her six beloved grandchildren, making each of them feel special. She spent so much time in Los Angeles, with her eldest granddaughters, that people mistakenly thought she lived there. She was pure sunshine and joy in everyone’s life. The family joked that she could make a friend anywhere she went, even striking up conversations with people at the bus stop. She was eager to get to know people and listen to their stories. She checked in on friends and family near and far on a regular basis. She was a constant cheerleader for her family and always strong in her faith. She was vibrant, positive, and kind. To know Virginia, was to love her.

Virginia is preceded in death by her brother Florentino, sister Martha (Rudy), and son-in-law Stephen. Virginia is survived by her sister-in-law Victoria, and five children: Shirley, Diane (Ray), Nancy (Stephen), Michael (Lourdes), and Lisa (Paul). Her six grandchildren: Adriana, Melinda, Michael, Maya, Brandon, and Evan. As well as her many nieces.

There will be a small service with family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, you can donate to the American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org/donate/donate-memorial or the Humane Society Silicon Valley hssv.org, in memory of Virginia.

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