Virginia G. Wallace was born Oct. 29, 1949 in Berkeley, California, where she grew up with her parents Ben and Martelle Gerwick; two brothers, and a sister.

She passed away in her home on Bainbridge Island on April 13, 2018 with her husband, Golden Retrievers, and cat at her side. She was 68.

Much like the artistic-minded community of her childhood, Virginia was a lifelong lover of art in all mediums, with a special knack for painting, drawing and cooking. She attended art school — and enjoyed a varied collection of paintings, sculptures and other forms of art throughout her life.

While working as a banker in San Francisco, she met Roy Wallace, and — after several refusals — finally decided to go on a date with him. This led to courtship and marriage on Dec. 4, 1982. Their daughter, Darcy was born in 1987.

In 1992, the family moved from Oakland to Bainbridge Island, attracted by its schools, environment and natural beauty.

After several decades working in banking and advancing to operations management, Virginia retired and continued focusing on her family. She frequently volunteered with her daughter’s schools, and spent at least a decade as part of a book group which soon became some of her closest friends. She loved travel, and whenever she could, tried to get away to Hawaii or to a family retreat in Southern Oregon.

Throughout life, Virginia was known for her creativity, humor, intensity (and sometimes, her admittedly incorrigible stubbornness!) and overwhelming empathy. Regardless of anyone’s status, job or age, Virginia could break through a proud exterior to reveal the unique human underneath. She had a way of getting to know people from all backgrounds, and could make you feel like you truly mattered. While often serious and passionate, Virginia could surprise you with a hilarious witty quip, able to make you laugh when least expected.

Virginia is survived by her husband, Roy; her daughter, Darcy; sister Beverly and brothers Cliff and Bill; an extended family; two devoted dogs and a tuxedo cat. Arrangements for a celebration of life will be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Bainbridge Schools Foundation are encouraged. Arrangements are entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home.