Obituary of Virginia Ann McCloskey

McCLOSKEY, Virginia (nee Ritchie) Virginia (Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Sister) embodied so many beautiful qualities.She was the epitome of strength, and resilience. Virginia had a great sense of humour,the most infectious laugh, and the ability to say things as they were. She was full of wisdom, and had a natural way to make anyone feel loved, supported, and empowered.Virginia was an old-school Registered Nurse who regaled us with stories about the nuns at St.Joe’s in London during the fifties. She was on the “front-lines” at Hotel-Dieu in Windsor and Harper-Grace in Detroit. She went on to raise and nurture our family on Dormar Drive, welcoming friends and neighbours for a game of Rummy or Yahtzee. She returned to nursing after we had grown up, caring for residents at Riverside Nursing Home. For the past few years, Heron Terrace is the place that she called home, where she sat on the board to advocate for her fellow residents. Virginia spoke highly of the care she received at Heron Terrace, often referring to the staff as her “other family”. For them, we are so grateful.Virginia passed away on April 14, 2020 at the age of 83. Virginia left us peacefully, holding her granddaughter Brianne’s hand, and hearing the voices of her beloved family. Virginia is welcomed by her loving husband and best friend, Charles “Chuck” of 57 years.Cherished Mom of Sharon Scammell (Kirt), David McCloskey (Allison Bellemore), Paul McCloskey (Penny Greenwood), Mary Jo Dillon (Paul Giordimaina), and Mark McCloskey(Amanda Deboer). Adored Grandma of Jason (Mirela), Meagan (Nicole), Morgan (Jena),Carley (Ryan), Alex (Lauren), Kate, Charlotte, Brianne (Mitchell), Jewel, Kelli, Matt, Derek(Breanne), Grace. Proud Great-Grandma of Benjamin and Mila, Madison and Everett, and Ophelia. Dear Sister of Joan Gallagher (Morrie), and the late William Ritchie. Sister-in-law of the late Raymond (Eileen), and Mary Catherine (Anthony Gerrish). Virginia will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends, especially her friend of many years, Barb Cadieux. Lastly, Virginia will be missed immensely by her good friend and movie-going buddy, Vince.Our thoughts are with the individuals and families who are impacted by the loss of Virginia, as well as the tragic times in our world. Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, we are all so proud to be the legacy you leave behind. A private family service and burial has taken place. A memorial service will be held at a later date. The Bereavement Authority of Ontario has instituted the following directive:“The new maximum number of people who can be at a funeral home at one time (not including staff) is 10 or fewer. This pertains to the entire funeral home.”