Virginia E. McConnell

At the age of 3, she moved to Selah, WA where she resided until age 80.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Wayne, her parents, Robert and Audrey Thompson, her brothers, Robert, Eugene and Richard Thompson.

She is survived by her sister, Barbara Zarley and daughters, Carol (Kirk) Mathewson, Gloria (Bob) Wenman and niece Linda Clark. Grandchildren include Campbell (Melissa) Mathewson, Tyler (Charles) Core, Thatcher (Karen) Mathewson, Andy Wenman, Zach (Mary) Wenman and Jenn Wenman. Grand nephews include Kelly (Jenn) Clark and Chuck Clark. She is also survived by 9 great grandchildren.

A 1941 graduate of Selah High School, Virginia worked at her parents Selah restaurant (Thompson Cafe), followed by her job in the lab for Vacudry Company for 10 years. After taking classes at Yakima Valley College she earned her secretarial degree and became the school secretary at John Campbell Elementary School in Selah for 13 years. She was fondly called “Miss Virginia” by the many students. After retirement, she worked at the Selah Nursing Home as an activity director for 2 years.

There was never a dull moment in Virginia’s life. She was passionate about every activity she took up.

She was a natural musician, playing the drums in the high school band and also in a small local band that performed at high schools and other venues including Playland in Selah. She played the piano by ear after hearing a tune a few times. Being a talented whistler, she placed 2nd in the Washington State Whistling Contest. Her other hobbies included being a ‘Master Gardener,” sewing, crocheting, cooking, canning, antique collecting, reading and vacationing.

She will be missed by all who knew her.

A Funeral Service will be held at Rainier Memorial Center Chapel on Friday, May 5, 2017 at 1:30 pm with interment immediately following at Terrace Heights Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to your local Salvation Army.

To celebrate the life of Virginia and share a memory visit www.keithandkeith.com.