Virginia Ellen Orem

Virginia Ellen (Means) Orem, lovingly known as Ginny, passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, after a brief and sudden illness at the age of 94. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James, with whom she shared nearly 70 years of joyful marriage.

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Ginny's creativity blossomed early. In her high school years, she became a designer for L.S. Ayres, the iconic Indianapolis department store. Ginny's sharp sense of style and beauty enabled her to create unique designs in the fashion department. Still hanging in her closet today is a beautiful blue silk dress suit that she designed and wore for her wedding.

At age 21, Ginny married her high school sweetheart and soon embraced her roles as wife and mother with pride and joy. She poured her heart into raising her three children and keeping a happy family home. Family gatherings were filled with her warmth and kindness. She cherished every moment and took immense pride in each of her children's and grandchildren's accomplishments.

Music was Ginny's lifelong companion. She began playing the piano at age 5 and while she continued to play throughout the years, she stunned her family when, at age 80, she renewed her efforts and returned to the keys playing with the grace and passion of her youth. One cherished memory is of Ginny sitting at the family piano, her fingers dancing through Debussy's "Clair de Lune," filling the room with a gentle magic that brought smiles to all present. Family gatherings were never complete without her music, and she played nearly every day up to her passing.

She moved to Maine with Jim at age 72 and enjoyed all that Maine has to offer. She delighted in the four seasons – the snowfalls, thunderstorms, budding of new flowers and the crisp fall weather. She loved living in her cottage by the ocean, with her flowers and other plants, the visits from the birds to her feeders, and the company of family, friends, and neighbors. She found comfort and wisdom in her strong Christian faith.

Ginny is survived by her daughter, Carole Orem (with husband Steve Goldbas and grandson Parker Hough), her son, James David Orem (with wife Peggie; granddaughters Elizabeth and Hannah, grandson Quentin Orem-married to Madeline with children Grace and Michael), and her son, Stephen Charles Orem.

The family would like to express their profound appreciation to Lesley Treadwell who helped care for Ginny the past few years allowing her to stay in her happy home.

Ginny's life was a tapestry of creativity, devotion, and love-her legacy lives on in the laughter she inspired, the beauty she crafted, and the music that echoed through her home. Her family and friends will forever remember her sweet and cheerful spirit and the joy she brought to their lives.