Virginia McCarrel

Long Beach Virginia McCarrel, known to friends as "Ginger," a beloved sister in Christ Jesus, was quietly and peaceably called home to be with the Lord on September 12, 2023. She was 80. Born in Hillsboro, Illinois, Ginger was raised in Long Beach, California, where she completed an associate degree from Cypress Community College. She was currently living in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and was formerly of Cypress, California. As a teacher's aide with the Los Alamitos Unified School District for over 30 years, she was passionate about teaching children and nurturing growth. As a deaconess and active church member, Ginger continued to teach children and adults alike, spreading her love and deep understanding of the gospel. She was a faithful servant of the Savior. "She always took the opportunity to share God's word and call on others to examine their relationship with Christ," said daughter Megan Tomaro. "Strangers could feel the Lord's presence in her and would approach her for guidance. She always lifted up the Lord and was an encourager to all. Her words, mentorship and strength from God will live on in many hearts and minds for years to come." Ginger is survived by her daughter, Megan (Michael) Tomaro, and granddaughter, Zoe; brothers, Bill (Connie) Hall and Steve (Lydia) Bentley; and missionary family, Cliff, Martie, Lance and Robin Hellar. Gingeralso will be forever remembered and deeply missed by her church family and many dear friends. Ginger was predeceased by her devoted husband of 31 years, Harold "Hal"; and stepson, Douglas. Due to Ginger's love of living plants, the family requests plants in addition to floral arrangements. The family will receive friends 11 AM - 12 noon Tuesday, September 19 with a memorial service to take place at noon at Mountain View Baptist Church, 1406 Walt Price Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876, with Pastor Jack Hitch officiating and presenting the gospel. A graveside service will immediately follow behind the church at Mountain View Cemetery. Online condolences may be made at www.atchleyfuneralhome.com "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surround us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joset before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2