Obituary of Virginia L. Pugh

Virginia “Jinny” Lee Pugh, 80, of Williamsburg, died Thursday, October 19, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.  Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, October 23, at First Presbyterian Church in Iowa City with a lunch/visitation to follow. Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting with Jinny's arrangements.  To share a memory, thought, or condolence with her family, please go to the funeral home website at www.gayandciha.com

Jinny was born on December 18, 1936 in Iowa City to Dr. William and Jean Coder. On June 16, 1956, she married the “love of her life.”  She is survived by her devoted husband, Larry; five children, David, Paul (Vanessa), Thomas (Michele), John (Frances), and Nancy Berg (John); and grandchildren, Katie, Hannah, Lauren, Spencer, Kyra, William, and Luke. 

Jinny was a dedicated wife, mother and member of her community. No matter where Jinny and Larry lived (14 moves), she joined community groups, volunteered countless hours and made wonderful, lifelong friends.  Jinny was an active member of the University Club, Chapter JF of PEO Sisterhood, and Allen Hospital Auxiliary in Waterloo. She attended the University of Iowa and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority.

Jinny was most proud of raising five children, seeing they all received college education, and watching them pursue successful careers and marry wonderful spouses. She felt blessed to have had such close relationships with her 7 unique, fun grandchildren that brought so much joy to her life.  She said, “I try to live each day as if it is the first day of my life. The more you give, the more you receive.”

In lieu of flowers, dedications can be made to First Presbyterian Church in Iowa City, firstpresiowacity.org, and Allen College Foundation in Waterloo, AllenFoundation@unitypoint.org.