Virginia Gibbs | May 1928 – May 2023
Virginia Gibbs passed away peacefully on May 16, 2023, seven days before her 95 birthday. She was born in Bothell, Washington on May 23, 1928, the daughter of John and Annie Zanassi. Her brother, Edwin Zanassi, preceded her in death. Virginia attended Bothell High School, graduating in 1946. She attended two years at Western Washington College of Education, now Western Washington University.
On May 28, 1949, she married her high school sweetheart, Wayne Gibbs, who preceded her in death one year ago. They were married 72 years and built a wonderful life together in the Woodinville community. Their life was rich with many longtime friends and family.
Virginia was active in a Children’s Hospital guild for many years. She participated in ‘penny drives’, and a plethora of other fund raisers for the hospital. She swam daily with her dear friends Ida May Brown and Isabelle Olson. Their daily swim was always followed by a trip to Starbucks where they greeted friends in the community as they came in for their morning coffee. She also belonged to a bridge club for many years. She worked for Puget Sound Energy for 22 years, retiring in 1990.
Virginia led a full life and represented the epitome of giving. She always put others before herself. She was the ultimate hostess, ensuring everyone felt welcome in their home. She and Wayne rarely dined alone and valued gathering with friends at the end of the day. She loved flowers, ensuring there were bouquets throughout their home, picked from the gorgeous garden that Wayne kept. One hundred dahlias for her to choose from!
Virginia is survived by her daughter, Susan Orr (Eric Ranta); son, Wesley Gibbs (Jan); grandchildren; Karly Orr (Kevin Sikes); Amy Orr (Abdi Moazami); Ian Gibbs (Jayme); and Aubrey Gibbs; plus, seven great-grandchildren.
The family will celebrate her life privately. Remember her by cherishing your family and friends, and always have a fresh flower on your table. Virginia’s love and acceptance of others will be missed by many. She made the world a better place.
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