Virginia Gwyn Thornburgh

Virginia Gwyn Thornburgh, 79, of Poplar Bluff, MO, passed away Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Westwood Hills Nursing Center.

Virginia was born in May of 1946, to Hansel and Gladys Ellen (Armstrong) Roberts in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. She married Robert "Bob" Thornburgh on May 03, 1969, at Second Baptist Church also in Poplar Bluff.

Virginia attended Poplar Bluff schools and graduated in 1964. During her time in school, she especially enjoyed business classes and playing Saxophone in the band. She also took piano and organ lessons in her younger years. Virginia grew up attending Second Baptist Church and began using her musical talents to play for church services there as a teen. She also enjoyed helping with Vacation Bible School and other church groups involving children. After graduating high school, Virginia worked as a bookkeeper and teller at Bank of Poplar Bluff for eight years. She also studied music at Three Rivers Community College during this time. Virginia went on to teach piano, organ, accordion, and saxophone for 32 years. In 1988, she began attending First Baptist Church where she continued to be a blessing to others through her countless musical talents; from children’s choir and musicals to Sunday School ministry and participating in the adult choir, she took true joy in it all! She also played organ at the VA Hospital for the protestant service on Sunday mornings for around five years. Virginia loved her family fiercely and never let anyone forget it. She was known to be loyal, kindhearted, dedicated, and passionate throughout her life.

Virginia is survived by her husband of nearly 57 years, Bob Thornburgh; daughter, Debbie (Stephen) Winters; two granddaughters, Hannah and Bethany Winters; special cousin, Nancy Bratcher; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended cousins, and friends.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents and one brother who passed in infancy, Donald Roberts; one special canine companion, Yo-Yo.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, from 11:00 am - 12:00 pm at First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff. Funeral service will follow beginning at Noon with Pastor Brandon Spain officiating. Burial will take place at the Poplar Bluff City Cemetery.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of Mrs. Virginia Gwyn Thornburgh. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.