Virginia Ann Brickey, 89, of Amherst, Va., fell asleep in death on Sunday, July 14, 2024.
Virginia, known to many as “Ginger” or simply “Granny”, was born on June 11, 1935, in Salem, Va., to Rufus and Evelyn Lucille Abbott. There she was raised alongside her two brothers and one sister. Though during her life she lived in other parts of Virginia, Salem would always be her most beloved home.
Virginia married Richard R. Brickey on March 13, 1954. They were married for nearly 51 years until Richard’s death and together they raised 4 children. Virginia’s favorite job title was that of “Mom” and later “Granny”. She adored her children and had a special love for her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren once they came along.
From a young age Virginia’s parents encouraged her interest in the Holy Bible. When she was older, she began a diligent study of the Scriptures and was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on August 21,1960. Virginia had an unwavering love for Jehovah God and her determination to imitate Christ was clearly seen in the absolute kindness, generosity, and compassion that she showed to everyone she met.
Virginia was also known for her many other “loves”. Her selfless love of people made her a true friend to many. She had a great love for animals, especially her loyal dog Kirby. She was known for her love of ice cream, board games, and red roses. She loved the morning sunshine, the color blue, and enjoying classic Disney movies while enthusiastically singing along to their many cheerful songs.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her parents; and her brothers, Roderick and Kenneth Abbott.
Her surviving family includes her dear sister, Janice Allen; her children, Steve Brickey (wife Judy), Sherry Whorley (husband Buster), Mindy McArdle (husband John), and Mark Brickey (wife Jessica); grandchildren, Seth, Marisa, Shalina, Lindsey, Tim, Hailey, Lauren, and Tessa; great-grandchildren, Sierra, Logan, Tristan, Lianna, Kinley, Aron, and Jackson; three great-great-grandchildren and a fourth arriving soon; as well as beloved nieces, nephews, and many faithful friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, July 28, 2024, at the John. M Oakey & Son Chapel in Salem, Va., with Marlan Morris officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 2 p.m. with the service to follow at 3 p.m.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.
