Virginia Manning

Ginny was born at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin, Texas on April 7, 1955 to Amba Manning Bailey and Lt. William B. Bailey. From her tiny and treacherous beginnings, she proved herself resilient and strong willed. After a year in Austin, her family moved to Misawa, Japan, where her next two sisters were born. The Bailey family was then stationed at Columbus, Ohio for the next five years, where Ginny started her first years of school. Other stations over the years included Phoenix, AZ, Miami, FL, and Ft. Hood, TX, and the arrival of three more siblings. When the family finally settled in Austin, TX, Ginny attended Lamar Junior High School and graduated from Travis High School in 1975. None of us will forget the standing ovation she received as she was wheeled across the stage to accept her diploma. After graduation, Ginny lived in different parts of Texas, then New Mexico, Connecticut, and Arizona before returning to Texas permanently. She finally settled back in Austin where her family also resided.

Ginny was a powerful influence on our sense of tolerance and strong aversion to intolerance of differences.

Woe to anyone who underestimated the strong will and intellect of this tiny woman in a wheelchair! Once Ginny decided on a course of action, she did not back down. She was adventurous and had a fearless streak (who could forget her solo trip to DC!). She was well versed on her rights and would accept nothing less. She was keenly observant and always on top of current events, ready for a discussion of the issues of the day. Ginny had an amazing memory, retaining everything from bank account numbers to birthdays.

She enjoyed country music, preferred to wear bright colors (true to her personality) and was quick with her gratitude. She always remembered the details about people and conversations, exhibiting her characteristic thoughtfulness in making sure family and staff received birthday and holiday gifts. She was like a mischievous elf! Her laugh was from the belly and infectiously genuine. When something tickled her, her laugh was contagious.

Ginny was the oldest of six children and is survived by her five siblings – Heather Bailey (and David Maduzia), Sidney Bailey Hacker (and Richard Hacker), Brooke Bailey (and Rudy Garcia), Brianne Bailey Chaney (and Larry Chaney) and John Bailey. She is also survived by her nieces Lauren Bigley and Anna Hacker, nephews Devin Bailey, Bailey Shelton and Kye Maduzia (and Ayla Maduzia) and several great nieces and nephews.

Ginny’s family would like to expressly thank all the members of the team at Legend Oaks North Austin for risking their health during Ginny’s illness to provide her care and helping the family stay connected with Ginny during her last days. We would also like to thank Altus Hospice for their guidance, support, and professionalism.

Due to COVID-19, the date for Ginny’s memorial service and the internment of her ashes at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery has not been set. For those wishing to honor Ginny, donations may be made to The Arc of the Capitol Area (https://www.arcaustin.org/).