Don Granville Virgin

1926 - 2025

Don Granville Virgin

August 11, 1926 - January 19, 2025

Don Virgin, 98, entered the Church Triumphant on January 19, 2025, in Henrico, Virginia. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, Don grew up during the Great Depression and World War II, formative experiences that shaped his resilience and character. He attended Duke University through the ROTC program, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He played the position of tight end on Ashland High School's football team in Kentucky and was a brother of the Kappa Sigma fraternity at Duke.

After graduating, Don began his career as a managerial trainee at VEPCO in Richmond, Virginia. Over the course of 40 years, he advanced to marketing director at Dominion Energy. A licensed Professional Engineer and active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), Don contributed to national standards and served as past president of its Richmond chapter. He also retired as a Lieutenant in the United States Naval Reserve.

Don was upbeat and embraced life with enthusiasm and an active spirit. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, camping, traveling, playing bridge, solving crossword puzzles, and reading. Among his proudest achievements were three Holes-in-One, all featured in the *Richmond Times-Dispatch*.

A devoted member of Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church, Don served as both Deacon and Elder. His dedication to service extended to volunteering with Henrico Doctors' Hospital, Meals on Wheels, and the Boy Scouts of America. He donated over 145 units of blood to the Virginia Blood Service. After his wife lost her sight, Don read newspapers over the radio for the visually impaired.

Don's generosity extended to monetary contributions to numerous nonprofits throughout his life. A lifelong Republican married to a lifelong Democrat, he often joked with his wife that they canceled out each other's votes - a testament to their love and respectful partnership. Don was a devoted husband and father who consistently put others before himself. He set an enduring example of love and selflessness for his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Madge Poole Virgin. He is survived by their children, Reese Virgin (Jamie), Laura Williamson (Hank), and Claude Rozier (Marianna). Don also leaves behind two step-grandchildren; and two step-great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends on Monday, January 27, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the Parham Chapel of Woody Funeral Home, 1771 N. Parham Road. A celebration of Don's life will take place on January 28, 2025, 2 p.m., at Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church, 7000 Park Avenue. Flowers are welcome or donations may be made in his memory to Tuckahoe Presbyterian Church.

Don Granville Virgin will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, dedication to service, and love for his family. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.