She was born January 11, 1934, at home on the family farm in Mt. Auburn Twp., in Christian County, IL the daughter of Homer R. and Myrtle (Nelson) Hargis. Virginia graduated from Rochester High School and then earned her Registered Nurse certificate from Memorial Hospital School of Nursing in 1954.
She married Charles Earl Owens in Trinity Lutheran Church, July 29, 1955. He preceded her in death April 15, 1992. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters; Marjorie and Dorothy.
Virginia retired from St. John’s Hospital where she served in the high risk nursery (NICU) for 37 years. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church LCMS where she served on various boards and committees, namely the Ladies Aid, serving as the Chairman of the Flower Committee, and ensuring the Bethesda residents had cakes for their birthday. She was a member of Willing Workers Quilters group, and was especially known for teaching Sunday school to special needs children. She would spend hours researching teaching techniques to help the children learn about their Lord and Savior at Trinity, and the Carlson Living Center. She was instrumental in teaching confirmation classes to special needs children as well.
Virginia was awarded two service awards “The Follower of the Lamb” award in 1997 from Bethesda Lutheran Homes and Services and “Recognition of Service for leading God’s special children to know their Lord and Savior” in 2014 from Trinity Lutheran Church.
She is survived by her children: Keith Owens of Mechanicsburg, IL, Deborah Owens, Marjorie Owens, Catherine Owens, and Vivian Smith all of Springfield, and Kenneth Owens of Taylorville, IL. She has three granddaughters: Mercedes (Larry) Caponigro of Springfield, Jodi Owens of Taylorville, and Amy (Beau) Lawrence of Springfield. There are several nieces, nephews and cousins.
The Owens family will greet friends at Bisch and Son Funeral Home 505 E. Allen St., Springfield, from 1-3 pm Sunday, March 31, 2019. Funeral services will be held at 10 am Monday, April 1, 2019 at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Thomas G. Radtke and Rev. Paul Hemenway officiating. Burial will follow in Camp Butler National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Bethesda Lutheran Homes, 1905 Montana Dr. Suite 10, Springfield, IL 62704. Please visit www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch and Son Funeral Home 544-5424
