Virginia Alderson Talcott

Virginia Alderson Talcott

Of Olympia, Washington, passed away on June 6, 2011. She was 93 years old. She was born in Spokane, Washington December 9, 1917 to Emma and Herbert Christopher Alderson.
After graduating from Lewis and Clark High School in 1936, Virginia attended the University of Washington, where she studied art and interior design. She was the president of her sorority, Chi Omega. In 1940 she was selected as one of 50 delegates to participate in the America-Japan Student Conference in Japan, where she traveled extensively. She then continued her studies at the University of Hawaii.
While attending the University of Washington, Virginia met Richard "Dick" Noyes Talcott, Sr. After marrying in 1941, they settled in Olympia, where Dick worked in the family business, Talcott Jewelers. Together they raised five children, teaching all of them to ski on the rope tows at Paradise, Mt. Rainier. Virginia was passionate about gardening and playing golf, and was an avid collector of antiques and glass. She was an active member of numerous volunteer and special interest organizations, including St. Mary's Guild, St. Peter Hospital Auxiliary (Charter Member), PEO, the Governor's Mansion Foundation Board, the Early American Glass Club, Bess French Orthopedic Guild, and the Washington State Capitol Museum. She made many friends through these community involvements. She and Dick were also members of St. John's Episcopal Church, the Olympia Golf and Country Club, the Tacoma Golf and Country Club, the Pacific Northwest Ancient Skiers, and the Olympia Ski Club.
Virginia is survived by her five children, Winona Pietila, Susan (Bob) Andrew, Richard (Cecilia) Talcott Jr., Gary Talcott, and Lori (Robert Kolden) Talcott; her seven grandchildren; her sister Winona Alderson Henderson; her extended family and many beloved friends, and her devoted care-givers, especially Daniella and Dan Vicovan. Her beloved husband Dick preceded her in death.
Virginia will always be remembered for her kind heart, sense of humor, and devotion to her family. She will be missed by all those who knew her.
At Virginia's request, there will be a private family memorial. In her memory the family is asking donations be made to Providence St. Peter Hospital or St. Mary's Church Guild.