Virginia Miller Lyman passed away peacefully November 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and love for her family and community.
Born in Olympia, Washington, Virginia graduated from the University of Washington in 1952 with a degree in education and began her career as a teacher. After moving to Washington, D.C. with her late husband, "Sandy", she continued her professional journey as an administrator at the National Academy of Sciences, where her meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills made her an invaluable member of their team.
Virginia and Sandy built a life filled with adventure, moving from San Francisco to Florida, to Washington, D.C., and eventually returning to the San Francisco Bay Area, settling in Vallejo. Their partnership revolved around mutual respect, shared passions, and unwavering devotion.
Virginia was a consummate hostess who delighted in bringing people together. Her love of food, wine, and cooking transformed every gathering into a celebration. She and Sandy traveled extensively, embracing new cultural experiences and cuisines with enthusiasm and an adventurous spirit.
After retiring, Virginia devoted herself to giving back to her community. She volunteered with local SPCA, library literacy programs, and their community governance, bringing the same care and commitment to these causes that she brought to everything in her life. Her gregarious and cheerful nature made her a beloved presence wherever she went.
Above all, Virginia treasured her family. She was a patient and loving mother who provided unwavering support and guidance. Her grandchildren and great-grandson brought her immeasurable joy, and she delighted in spending time with them. She loved visiting her many nieces and nephews in Connecticut, New York, Washington State and Berkeley, California. Their friends became an extended family for her and she reveled in hearing their latest adventures.
Virginia is survived by her sons Gregory Lyman of El Cerrito, California and Geoffrey Lyman of Decatur, Georgia; grandchildren Hannah, Colin, and Cecille Lyman; and great-grandson Calvin Li.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, and her legacy of kindness and love will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched.
To order
memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Virginia Miller Lyman, please visit our
flower store.