Virginia Absher

Virginia Mae Absher, 96, of Washington, IL, passed away peacefully on April 24, 2024, after a short illness. Virginia Absher ('Ginny' to her family and close friends) was born on October 13, 1927, to Nettie Hanshaw (Todd) and William Hanshaw. She married Ralph ('Gene') Absher on September 1, 1946. They enjoyed 53 wonderful years of marriage before he preceded her in death on February 10, 1999. Virginia is survived by her son, Mark Absher, 5 grandchildren: Lisa (Paul) Cookson, Heidi (Paul Evans), Elizabeth (Cordiale) DiMaio, d., Sam (Paige) Absher and Sarah (Chris) Hixson, and 12 great-grandchildren. Virginia's daughter, Donna (Tom) Horning, preceded her in death in May, 2015. Virginia worked at WABCO from 1962-1987 and loved her work. She was also a lifelong member of Madison Avenue United Methodist Church in Peoria and a was a devout Cubs fan. She made her last trip to Wrigley Field in 2022, but didn't ever miss a game during baseball season. Virginia was clear eyed about death but torn between leaving her family (she was happiest with a well-stocked fridge and family crowded around her dining room table), and joining the love of her life, Gene. They grew up across the street from each other, married at the end of WWII, and never parted ways until his death in 1999. They were the very definition of a happily married couple, persevering through the highs and lows of life, enjoying road trips and cruises, and doting on their grandchildren. Virginia will be forever remembered for her sewing and knitting. She taught her Mother, Nettie, how to crochet, but preferred knitting herself. For every new great-grandchild, she made a silken baby quilt. There were also numerous knitted afghans along the way as well as many, many dresses for her granddaughters. During her retirement, Virginia volunteered in the newborn nursery at Methodist Hospital and knitted hats for every newborn she cared for. Virginia will also be remembered for her unconditional love of her family and her incredible strength and faith in the face of adversity. She was a realist; often talking with her granddaughters about her death. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind, and you always knew where she stood on any issue. At the age of 96, hers was a long and well-lived life. She took her final breaths in her sleep, just as she would have wanted. Her husband and daughter, both of whom she missed dearly, no doubt welcomed her into the thereafter, and a riotous reunion ensued. For those friends and family reading, may this obituary ignite fond memories of Virginia, who is smiling down upon us, hoping that we take a moment to say hello, sit a spell, or share a memory.

The funeral service to honor Virginia's life will be held at 1:00 pm at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington on Friday, May 10, 2024. Prior to the service, there will be a one-hour visitation. Virginia will be laid to rest at the American Mausoleum in Peoria. To share a memory or condolence with her family, visit www.masonfuneralhomes.com.