Virginia Esther “Virginia” Raley, 103, of Avenue, MD passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020 at Hospice House in Callaway. Born on March 11, 1917, she was the daughter of George Henry Ragan and Gertrude Virginia McMillian, and the loving wife of the late John Dennis “Junior” Raley, Jr., who preceded her in death on November 13, 2005. They were married for 51 years.
Virginia attended elementary school at the Red Gate Elementary School, a one-room school on Ryceville Road in Mechanicsville, MD. And she attended three years of high school at Glasva High School in Charles County. She attended Margaret Brent High School in Helen during her senior year and graduated in 1934. She was the oldest living alumna of the school.
Virginia was an active member of All Saints Episcopal Church in Oakley for many years, serving as a member of the vestry and altar guild. She chaired their church dinner for many years also.
Virginia is survived by her daughter, Barbara A. Lacey (William, deceased), stepson Denny Raley (Brenda), stepdaughter Carol Ann Pingleton (Wayne, deceased), and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her Nana. She is also survived by her brother Gordon Ragan and sister Fauna Sullivan. She was predeceased by two brothers, John and Paul.
Due to Covid -19, funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions to the following organizations would be warmly accepted: Hospice House, 44724 Hospice Lane, Callaway, MD 20620; the 7th. District Volunteer Rescue Squad P.O. Box 7 Avenue, MD 20609; and All Saints Episcopal Church P.O. Box 307 Avenue, MD 20609.
The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the staff at Taylor Farm Assisted Living in Bushwood, MD and all of the staff at Hospice of St. Mary’s for the care and comfort provided to Virginia in her time of need.
