Boxford, MA- Virginia (Lewis) Mathias, passed away gracefully Saturday, June 7th, 2008 at home surrounded by her immediate family.
She was born in Pittsburg, PA, daughter of Thomas and Freda (Williams) Lewis. Ginny moved to Andover in 1968 with her husband, the late Frank J. Mathias, who passed away in 1988.
She graduated from Bradford College, studied fashion in Paris, was a substitute teacher at North Andover High School, and volunteered for years at the Lawrence General Hospital.
Ginny enjoyed her involvement as a member of The American Association of University Women, The November Club, The Andona Society and many other organizations.
In 1960 she was a contestant in the Mrs. America Pageant and won a brand new kitchen of pink appliances. This stylish prize was a perfect fit for such an elegant lady!
Virginia is survived by her immediate family, son F. Jeffrey, daughter-in-law Debbie, and granddaughter Mia. Two sisters, Norma Affolder and her husband Ray of Pennsylvania, Karen Armatorio and her husband Gene of Florida, and one brother Dr. Sidney Lewis and his wife Hilda of Maine, as well as several nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her dear friend Frank Symosek of Andover. Virginia was also predeceased by her second husband Arthur Gingrande, formerly of Boxford.
Arrangements are private at the request of the family, under the direction of the K.H. Pollard Funeral Home, 233 Lawrence St. Methuen, MA. A celebration of Virginia’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St. Boston, MA 02114.