Virginia Lee Held, or “Ginny” to those that knew her, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her husband, Walter “Wally,” and son, Gary, on Jan. 16, 2024. She had a kind heart, passion for teaching and was a caring wife, mother, grandmother and friend to all that knew her.
Ginny was born on June 3, 1941 in New York City, although to Ginny, her hometown was always Corvallis Oregon. Her family moved from New York City to Corvallis in 1947. She was a graduate of Corvallis High School in 1959, as well as a graduate of Oregon State University, where she received both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees.
While at Oregon State University, she worked for the school of business as secretary to the placement director as well as to the Dean. During this time, she obtained her teaching certificate — this choice began her long and loved career as a business teacher at Philomath High School where she taught for 28 years.
Ginny was the recipient of the Al Neet Educator of the Year award in 1987. She was a part of FBLA and DECA, among many other organizations. One of Ginny’s teaching highlights was pioneering the local keyboarding program with her fellow teacher, Georgia Hering. Recognizing the importance of keyboarding for the future, they spent time traveling and hosting workshops for other educators so they could begin their own keyboarding programs. Ginny always liked to keep herself busy.
Ginny met Wally Held, through Wally’s sister Joan. They wed in May of 1964 and had 59 magical years together. Ginny was a fiercely dedicated mom to her only son, Gary; his wife, Amanda; and grandmother to her grandkids, Henry and Myla.
Ginny had a long battle with early onset Alzheimer’s disease, but never lost her cheerful attitude and bright smile. She was an early member of the local Dementia Warriors support group, as well as a dedicated member of Peace Lutheran Church in Philomath, Oregon.
We will miss Ginny every day.
A memorial service for Ginny is scheduled for April 20, 2024 at Peace Lutheran Church in Philomath at 11 a.m. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dementia Warriors support group c/o Peace Lutheran Church, or to the Alzheimer’s Association on her behalf.