Obituaries

Virginia Martha Lewis (nee Hubbs) passed away peacefully, surrounded by everyone she loved in her home in Ballwin, Missouri, on October 10, 2024, at the age of 98.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Edward, and siblings: Delbert, Lloyd, Bill, Jackie, Betty, and Mary. She is survived by her children Deborah (James) Traube, Tom (Sheri) Lewis, and Pam (Robby) Dirkers; grandchildren Heather, Aaron, Sara, Melissa, DJ, Liz, Amber, Ashley, Lexi; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was born April 27, 1926, in Salem, Missouri. Her strong faith led her to be a devoted member of several churches throughout her life. Growing up during the Great Depression profoundly shaped her character. She always found a way to make her money stretch and was always incredibly generous with everything she had. In June 1957, she married her husband, and after losing him at an early age, she continued to raise her three children on her own. Her independent and strong-willed spirit remained evident until the very end. In her later years, she became an active member of her retirement community, where she loved to play cards. She had a deep love for animals, especially her faithful canine companion, Alex. Shopping was one of her favorite hobbies, and she took great pride in always looking her best. She was an accomplished artist and several family members proudly display her works in their homes. She had a special fondness for birds and often told her family that she was going to become a bird one day and watch over them. They take comfort in knowing that she is now flying high above them.

She will be laid to rest with her husband at Bellefontaine Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to the World Bird Sanctuary.