Virgie Louise Dunlap, 79, of Oak Harbor, Wash., passed away quietly at her daughter’s home, Aug. 20, 2013.

She was born at home, in Barry County, Mo., on Sept. 18, 1933, to John and Geneva Painter. Virgie graduated from Southwest High School in Washburn, Mo., as valedictorian in 1951. She was a resilient woman who moved to Oak Harbor in 1954 to be married and begin a life with Glen Parsons. Together they had three children and enjoyed the beauty of Whidbey Island.

While raising three children, Virgie continued her education, receiving her bachelors of education in 1969 and her masters of education degree in speech pathology from Western Washington University in 1974.

Virgie worked as a speech therapist for the Oak Harbor School District until she retired in 1992. She participated in many community organizations including the American Legion, and Board of Directors for Maple Leaf Cemetery. Accomplished at sewing, crafting, carpentry and gardening, her life was filled with creating beautiful things.

She was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Virgie was preceded in death by her husband of 17 years, Gary Dunlap. She is survived by Lorraine Warren, Forest Grove, Ore.; Charles and Tammy Parsons, Kissimmee, Fla.; and Carla Waite, Oak Harbor, Wash.; a sister, Sue VanTwyver; eight grandchildren; five great- grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

The family requests in lieu of flowers a memorial donation is made to your favorite charity. No public services are planned.