Virginia Rosaline Highley

June 02, 1931 - March 22, 2018

Virginia Rosaline Highley

June 02, 1931 - March 22, 2018

Obituary

Virginia “Ginny” Highly, age 86, passed away in Bellingham, WA on March 22, 2018. On June 2, 1931 little Virginia was born (in the back seat of a Ford Model T!) to Clarence and Mary Grace in Columbus, OH. Though born to Clarence, Ginny always considered her step-dad, Jerry Inama, to be her true father. A beautiful young woman, Ginny worked as a model, and won the Miss California title in 1949. This was one of her life’s highlights that she loved to reminisce over in her later years.

Ginny began her education in San Pedro, CA, taking a break to dedicate time to raising her family. Eventually she attended Whatcom Community College, and at the age of 61, earned her GED. In her free time, she loved visiting with friends playing bingo, card games, dining out at her favorite restaurants, and indulging in her favorite snack of all time: potato chips! Whatever the activity, Virginia was always surrounded by laughter, happiness, and good friends.

She will be remembered for her gorgeous smile, pretty blue eyes, and her laughter that brightened up any room. She was so sweet and happy and strong, with a fantastic sense of humor through good times or bad. Ginny was hardworking, courageous, compassionate, and a truly elegant lady.

Virginia is predeceased by her parents Jerry and Mary Inama, her birth father Clarence Grace, sister Maryann Coil, niece Linda Shuchy, and three husbands: Jack Easterwood, Bud Roberts, and Richard Highly.

She is survived by her children Gary Easterwood of San Diego, CA, Connie Gray of Bellingham, WA, and Sharon Williams; grandchildren Sabrina, Erik, Thomas, Brenda, and Kelly; nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

A graveside service will be held on Friday March 30, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Bayview Cemetery in Bellingham.

Flowers may be sent to Moles Farewell Tributes – 2465 Lakeway Dr. Bellingham.

Graveside Service

  • Date & Time: March 30, 2018 (12:00 AM)
  • Venue: Bayview Cemetery
  • Location: 1420 Woburn St Bellingham, WA 98229 - (Get Directions)

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14 responses to Virginia Rosaline Highley

  1. So sorry to learn of sweet Ginny’s passing. She was one of the nicest people I’ve ever known and so thoughtful and kind.

  2. Bonnie Karb says:

    Connie and family I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of Virginia. Such a sweet lady who I often think about. Connie you were so caring to your mom, bringing her to visit Dick. I will never forget the precious moment when they renewed their wedding vows at the nursing home. She gave me a ceramic bell that I have in my hutch and when I see it I always think of her. Again so sorry for your loss.

  3. Kelly Erwing says:

    Dear Virginia You are gone but I assure you are not ever going to be forgotten. I remember the day you wheeled in to my facility at Bellingham Health and Rehab. You have such a big smile and absolutely the best laughter, I will never forget you. My last day at Bellingham was the day you flew home to our father. You told me you wanted to go with me when I moved to my new facility but I knew you could not go and you decided that you would leave at the same time I would. Virginia I Will Always Love You and you will always be in my memories as well as my heart. You were such a good mother and Connie could not be more proud of you. I have your tennis shoes the white Keds that you wanted to give me, I will wear those in memory of you. Everyone knows that you are gone and they are sad but I asked them not to be because you would not want to see anyone cry. You rest Virginia and tell my son Colby that I miss him and I love you both. One last thing Virginia you have touched so many lives with your beauty your kindness and you’re always willing to share. I love you my friend. Love always your activity director Kelly Erwing

  4. Connie gray says:

    Hi Mom and Hello Andrea Inama..I read what you wrote..thank you.. I did not know how to get hold of you and your parents.Mom did not have your address liated in her very old address book.She only had your parents bellingham address..
    Mom passed away from lung failure.
    I miss her si very much….
    She is buried at bayveiw cemetery in between grandma and grandpa…

  5. Ella smiley says:

    I’m so glad that I got to know you, your beautiful smile and laughter for the love for your family and grandchildren and your great grandson. You will be missed Rest in the Lord
    Love Ella Smiley

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