Virginia M. Silimeo

Virginia Silimeo, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, just days after celebrating her 96th birthday. She is now reunited in heaven with the love of her life, her husband of more than 70 years, James Silimeo, who passed away in 2020.

Known affectionately to many as Gini, she was a force of nature—a woman whose devotion to her family defined her long and vibrant life. Born and raised in South Philadelphia during the Great Depression, Gini’s early years shaped her enduring resilience, warmth, and resolve. It was there she met the dashing young man who would become her husband, partner, and best friend—a love story that lasted more than seven decades.

Together, Gini and James built a beautiful life, raising three daughters and helping to raise two grandchildren. As a young family, they loved summer vacations in Wildwood, New Jersey. From the Jersey shore to the community pool, her summers were made by the water. For many years, she lovingly helped care for her grandchildren after school and during summer vacations. Summers with her were especially cherished, and included many days spent at her community pool.

In her later years, Gini became known in her neighborhood as the “Pool Queen.” Every summer, she would hold court in their special corner of the pool, watching over the group of women known as “the girls.” Her beautiful smile lit up the entire pool, and her presence brought warmth, laughter, and glamour to every sunny day. She is a tough act to follow—and she will be deeply missed each summer and always.

Gini has a wonderful sense of style and was always fashionably and impeccably dressed—no matter the occasion. Her style and spirit earned her the nickname “Glamma” from her granddaughter Katie, a name that perfectly captured her elegance.

She was predeceased by her husband James, her beloved daughter Donna Lynn Reinert, her grandson David Duncan Jr., and her siblings Vincent and Maria. She is survived by her daughters Debra Silimeo (Dan Cohen) and Stephanie Capizzi (Manuel), her granddaughter Katie Hantman (Ross); and son-in-law Richard Reinert (Susan).

Visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, June 6, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM, with a funeral service to follow, at the James J. Dougherty Funeral Home, 2200 Trenton Road, Levittown, Pennsylvania 19056. Burial will take place at Resurrection Cemetery, 5201 Hulmeville Rd, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society @ lls.org.