Virginia Mae Grove

Born in 1927, Virginia spent her early childhood with her parents and brothers in West Medway, MA. Virginia’s mother passed away when she was very young, placing Virginia into the care of aunts and her grandmother until she graduated from high school in 1945. It was also during these years that Virginia's eldest brother PFC John G Kingsbury Jr. died in the South Pacific during WWII. These two seminal events led Virginia to pursue a life of service to others. After graduation from West Medway HS in 1945, Virginia applied for work in the war office. However, a physical exam revealed tuberculosis and Virginia was admitted for two years to the TB sanatorium in Braintree, MA. These early adversities instilled in Virginia the importance of resilience and a dedication to those she loved. Following the example set by her late mother and brother John, Virginia intentionally choreographed a fulfilling life as a mother, Church Secretary for the Dover Church in Dover, MA, and as an active member in a number of Masonic Lodges (Social Order Of Beauceant and Eastern Star) as well as women’s church organizations in both Massachusetts and Florida throughout her lifetime.

In 2000, a chance meeting in Sarasota/Bradenton, FL reunited Virginia with her high school sweetheart Robert Grove. “Bob" and Virginia married at the end of 2000 and spent many happy years together at home in Bradenton, FL. Bob enjoyed composing symphonies and tending to the yard while Virginia was happiest in her kitchen or in the garden. Alongside entertaining old friends they enjoyed hosting a combined 8 children and their spouses, 26 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren whenever they came to visit.

Virginia is predeceased by both her husbands, Wallace White and Robert Grove, as well as her brother and sister-in-law Richard and Theresa Kingsbury and her nephew Richard Kingsbury. Virginia was a devoted mother to Cristine (White) Lee and Wallace K White. Loving mother-in-law to Dana Lee and doting and very silly Nana to Oliver, Aliza, Crystal and Jessica. Additionally, Virginia leaves behind her favorite niece, Patricia Kingsbury, cousins and friends from the West Medway High School Classes of 1944 & 1945 with whom she cherished lifelong friendships. Those who were privileged to know Virginia will miss her generous encouragements and wicked sense of humor.

Memorial Services will be held later this year.