Virginia M. "Ginny" Putnam

VIRGINIA M. "GINNY" PUTNAM
September 23, 1938 – November 12, 2025
Virginia M. "Ginny" Putnam, of Greenwood, New York, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 23, 1938, in Apollo, Pennsylvania, and lived a full and meaningful life defined by kindness, curiosity, and devotion to those she loved.
Virginia was a dedicated educator, teaching at Greenwood and Hornell Central Schools as well as Alfred State College. She inspired her students with patience, encouragement, and genuine care for their success. Her passion for learning extended beyond the classroom-she was an active member of the Red Hat Society, AAUW, the Greenwood Mystery Luncheons, St. James Mercy Hospital Auxiliary, West Greenwood Grange, and a member of the Historical Society of Greenwood, where she formed lasting friendships and helped preserve her community's heritage.
She was recognized for her community service with the Henry W. Holland Community Service Award from the Canisteo Rotary Club in 2014 and was honored as Town of Greenwood Citizen of the Year in 2015.
A lifelong antique collector alongside her husband, Ronald, Virginia found joy in uncovering the stories behind every piece she discovered. She loved sharing her appreciation for history and had a knack for finding "a 25-cent treasure you could sell for $100." She was also an avid gardener who cherished her flowers, gardens, and the birds that visited. She enjoyed traveling to places such as Egypt, Ireland, and Scotland, attending antique conventions wherever she went.
Her love for her husband, Ronald "Ron" Putnam, was deep and enduring-a bond admired by all who knew them. Family was at the heart of her life, and the closeness they share is a reflection of the love and strength she instilled in each of them. She especially adored her two grandchildren, Ava and Owen, who brought her endless pride and joy.
"If we couldn't find our mother at a flea market, garage sale, or auction, we could surely find her in her favorite chair, reading a book."
Virginia was predeceased by her husband, Ron Putnam, and her parents, Brownie "Wenceslaus" and Ann Stankus. Jim Putnam, Mike Putnam (Bonnie), and Jeanne Higgin (Dean); and her beloved grandchildren, Ava and Owen Higgins; Brothers John Stankus (Sissy), Jim Stankus (Darene), Eugene "Pip" Stankus (Debbie).
She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know her.
A Memorial Mass to celebrate her life will be held in the future. Details will be announced at a later date.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Virginia's name may be made to the Greenwood Historical Society, Greenwood Fire Department, Alfred State College, or a charity of the donor's choice.