Helen Virginia O'Connor

Born on August 1, 1933, in Toxey, Alabama, GiGi graduated from the University of Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in education. She accepted her first teaching position in Brunswick, GA where she lived with friends in an apartment on St. Simon’s Island. It was there that she met the love of her life, Dennis O’Connor who was serving in the U.S. Navy at Glynco Naval Air Station.

Virginia and Dennis were married at St. Williams Catholic Church, St. Simon’s Island, beginning a partnership that would last 46 years until Dennis’ passing. They started their marriage in Philadelphia, PA but moved to Huntington, West Virginia where they lived with their 5 children for over 20 years. In 1992, they fulfilled a lifelong dream to return to the Georgia coast, settling on Sea Island.

Virginia built her life on the enduring values of faith, family and love. She raised 5 children in a home filled with encouragement, laughter, and unconditional love. The consummate teacher, she passed on curiosity, love of learning and resilience. She often reminded her children that “if you can read, you can do anything.” She encouraged her children to pursue their dreams.

She had a quick wit and impeccable sense of humor, delivering one-liners with perfect timing that left family and friends laughing. Virginia loved to entertain and always made a little extra just in case a friend stopped by. Her home was a place of warmth, generosity, graciousness and kindness.

Her love extended to the many pets that enriched her life. Over the years she cherished the many Labrador Retrievers and one cat, treating them as members of the family. She adored her “grand dogs” delighting in spoiling them with treats, hugs and pets.

Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dennis, her cherished daughter Amy O’Connor and beloved babies, Baby Girl and Christopher O’Connor.

She is survived by her children, Rebecca Miner (Mark), Dennis O’Connor (Beth), Bridget O’Connor and Victoria O’Connor; and her grandchildren, EJ and Katie Miner; and all those whose lives were enriched by her kindness and generosity.

Virginia will be deeply missed by her devoted caregivers — Holly, Pookie, Carla, Roberta and Gia — all of whom became extended family. The family extends its heartfelt gratitude for the extraordinary compassion, love, friendship and dignity they gave Virginia in her final years.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Virginia’s life at a visitation on Monday, July 27 from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Edo Miller & Sons Funeral Home in Brunswick, GA. A mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, July 28 at 10:00 am at St. William Catholic Church on St. Simon’s Island, GA. Interment will immediately follow at Oglethorpe Memorial Gardens.

Virginia’s greatest legacy was the love she shared so freely with her family, friends and anyone fortunate enough to know her. She taught by example that faith gives strength, family gives purpose, kindness leaves an everlasting impression, and that belief in oneself can accomplish anything.