Virginia M. Millar

Born on February 20, 1925, Gina was the second of four siblings in a Polish family marked by strength and resilience. She was a formidable presence in the lives of those who knew her. A talented tennis player and a licensed pilot, she navigated life with an adventurous spirit. Until just this January, she could be seen driving her cherished Dodge Charger with a Hemi engine, a testament to her bold and independent nature.

In a notable achievement, Gina graduated from Augustana college, Rock Island, IL, at the age of 54 with a degree in Russian. Her fluency in the language enriched her and Gordon's lives as they traveled throughout Europe, including a memorable period living in Switzerland. Their adventures together were filled with cultural experiences, and Gina’s language skills allowed her to connect deeply with the places they visited and the people they met.

A skilled baker, Gina was known for her famous fruitcakes, which she sent to family and friends each Christmas, and for Christmas cookies that were as stunning as they were delicious. Her talents extended beyond the kitchen; she was an accomplished seamstress, having completed a tailoring course at Cass Technical High School in her late teens.

Gina retired to Spruce Creek, the Fly-In community. There, she was known for her commitment to various pursuits, including volunteering on the symphony board, playing tennis, and working in her garden. A woman of many interests, she balanced her roles with grace, always presenting herself with the poise reminiscent of Jackie Kennedy. She was married for over sixty years to Gordon, and her impressive dedication to fitness earned her a special place at the local health club, where they have a segment called “WWGD” (What Would Gina Do) in honor of her unwavering grit; her story is not just about staying fit; it’s about the profound impact of dedication to the lessons she imparted to all those around her.

Above all, Gina cherished her family. She was a devoted mother whose deep love was evident to all. She is survived by her children - George B. Millar (and spouse Jody), Kathryn M. List (and spouse Helmut), Juliet S. Ragaishis (and spouse Robert), John G. Millar (and spouse Gila), and James H. Millar (and spouse Michele) - along with 13 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. Her greatest concern was leaving her children in a world without her, knowing that no one would love them as deeply as she did. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon H. Millar.