Virginia Browne (Gonsalves)

Virginia (Ginia, Ginny, Gin – and many variations that she always responded to with good humour) left this world without explanation but in peace on February 1^st. To say those who loved her (and there were so many) are in disbelief is the type of hard truth Virginia always appreciated. She walked this earth with grace, an infectious laugh, fierce loyalty, a keen intellect, and an enormous capacity for love, which was given right back to her.

She leaves a permanent gap in a sisterhood that shared her remarkable life and who will miss her always – Jane Tasse, Ann Thompson-Hill, Susan Holmes, Elizabeth Richardson and Francesca Wheler. She was loved by her brothers-in-law, who often could only shake their heads at the antics – Richard Holmes, Robin Richardson and Ken Wheler. And she was a favorite and well-loved aunt to their children. Most of all, she was a mom to her daughter with her beloved late husband Jeremy – the light of her life, Emily. Together they roared through life, mostly on the back of a horse but sometimes on an e-bike and the occasional lawn mower. Emily and Virginia were inseparable and each other’s best friend in many ways, so the loss is profound.

Virginia had a huge extended family who she always stayed connected to, friends in England and Canada who she took joy in speaking with on a regular basis, and colleagues she cherished throughout her life. She loved all animals and surrounded herself with horses, dogs and cats, and leaves behind Magic and Sally especially who kept her in equal parts amused and annoyed on a daily basis.

Virginia was always kind, generous and very real, and loved nothing more than hosting family and friends for special celebrations or sitting in a kitchen somewhere drinking tea and laughing with people she loved. She has left an indelible mark on our lives that will never be erased, and we know her presence will always be felt in the simple moments we’ll spend without her.  To say this loss is unfair is an understatement, but Virginia would be the first to say, with her signature candor and practicality, we need to keep moving forward – which we will do in her memory.

A small Private Service for immediate family will take place, to be followed in April by a larger Celebration of Life for extended family and friends (date and information to follow).

In lieu of flowers the family hopes you’ll consider a donation to an animal charity of your choice.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

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