Virginia Handy Bower

Virginia Handy Bower, 87, passed away on June 17, 2024. She was born on July 30, 1936, in Patrick County, Virginia, to the late John Abe Handy and Lonie Ratliff Handy. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Charles Raymond Bower; brothers, Jack Handy, Harvey Handy, Robert “Abe” Handy, and an infant brother; and one sister, Pearl Flannery.

Virginia worked as a hairdresser in Bassett. Virginia was a faithful member of Blackberry Baptist Church. She was a culinary artist, often found using her skills in the kitchen to cook and bake. She was the “Queen of the Oven” and crafted the best biscuits you have ever tasted. Virginia loved compliments on her cooking and basked in the joy of knowing her food brought such pleasure to those she loved. Her repertoire extended to sweets that catered perfectly to anyone with a sweet tooth. She loved to host and serve others. She welcomed guests into her home and was always happy to have them at her table. Virginia never met a stranger; her warm demeanor and genuine love for others made every encounter memorable and cherished.

Virginia is survived by her children; Jeffrey Bower, Joel Bower, Tony Bower (Laverne), Tammy Bower (Joey Spencer), and Tracy Bower (Carol); eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Faye Handy; and many other nieces, nephews, family and friends.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, June 22, 2024, at 12:00 PM, at Blackberry Baptist Church, with Pastor Chad Janey officiating. The family will accept friends one hour prior to the service. A burial will immediately follow at Blackberry Baptist Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Virginia’s honor to Blackberry Baptist Church (3241 Stones Dairy Road, Bassett, Virginia 24055). Online condolences may be made by visiting www.bassettfuneralservice.com. Bassett Funeral Service is serving the Bower family.