Virginia Anne Willey

Virginia Anne Willey was welcomed into this world on April 1, 1932 by Earl and Ruby Willey. On August 31, 2022, she died peacefully in Tulsa. An only child, Virginia grew up in Corvallis, Oregon. Hers was a life filled with curiosity and learning, supported and encouraged by her parents and grounded in her Christian faith. Virginia had many friends, some of whom she kept in touch with throughout life until it was no longer possible. An avid student, Virginia excelled in her studies, especially journalism. She graduated from Oregon State University, and later received a master's in urban studies from the University of Tulsa. She began training in piano and violin at the age of 7. Throughout her years, music was central to her experience of life. She played in university and community orchestras. She loved singing in the church choir. Following her graduation, Virginia married Leonard Perlich, a newly commissioned Air Force officer and pilot. They were stationed in various parts of the country, and after years of service, moved their young family to Tulsa. Together, Virginia and Len built a life in Tulsa and were members of the Methodist Church. Virginia and Len owned and operated Perlich's Rapid Print, where they built a large network of friends and community connections. Len died unexpectedly in 1976 from injuries sustained in a stock car racing accident. It was several years later that Virginia began to make a new life for herself: attending TU, dancing, traveling, and making new friends. Virginia remarried and together they traveled by van, exploring the US and Canada, then lived and traveled for ten years in Oregon. The marriage ended and she resettled in Tulsa. Virginia continued to love life and work and be a member of the University United Methodist Church. Virginia was faithful in her spiritual practice: she belonged to Bible study groups and read scripture and daily devotional readings until she couldn't anymore. Throughout her life Virginia practiced "judging not, lest she be judged" and taught through her actions loving kindness and compassion. She loved cats. Virginia was a beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. Her many gifts to her communities and loved ones include: artist, singer, pianist, violinist, violist, thespian, journalist, entrepreneur, writer, librarian, typesetter/layout person, one time sky diver, jazz lover, Sunday School teacher, Cub Scout Den Mother, hair cutter and stylist, fashion designer and seamstress, a weaver, backpacker, and Encourager of All People to be who they are. Virginia is survived by her children: Debra Garfinkel; Pamela Perlich (Tammy Pfitzer); and Daniel Perlich (Darlene). Also, her grandson, Danny Pollard (Kathryn Dyer); and her great granddaughter, Julia Dyer. Virginia always wanted everyone to be happy and enjoy life! We will miss her very much. The family is grateful to the caregivers and community at Trinity Woods and University United Methodist Church, whose support and care sustained Virginia and her family over the years. A celebration of Virginia's life is scheduled for Saturday, September 17, 2022 at 11:00 AM, with reception to follow, at the University United Methodist Church, 2915 East 5th Street, Tulsa.

Virginia Anne Willey

April 1, 1932 - August 31, 2022