submitted
ALBIA —
Virginia Hope Golden, 89, of Albia, closed her eyes to this world and opened them looking into the eyes of her beloved husband Raymond, who has been waiting 23 years to waltz her around heaven to their favorite song, “Somewhere My Love.” Virginia passed away on Aug. 19, 2012, at Hopice House of Ottumwa.
Virginia was born Sept. 20, 1922, to John LeRoy and Mary Ann (Bates) Zaring in Consol.
Virginia attended primary school through the 8th grade in Consol. They then moved to Albia, where she attended Albia High School, graduating with the class of 1940. Virginia married Raymond Golden on Feb. 1, 1942, in Unionville, Mo. They shared 47 wonderful years of marriage before Raymond passed away on April 26, 1989.
Virginia worked at the Maid Rite on Benton Avenue with her father before she was a homemaker. She later worked at Firestone, prior to her and Raymond having the Golden Crown Restaurant in Albia. Virginia later worked at J.C. Penney before retiring.
Virginia was a great caregiver for not only Raymond, but for all members of her family. She was an excellent cook and was known by many for her fried chicken, chocolate and coconut cream pie. Virginia was a great seamstress and enjoyed crocheting. She liked being outdoors, camping and gardening. Virginia loved dancing and waltzing to the Kenny Hofer Orchestra with Raymond.
Virginia is survived by her three daughters, Patty (Bill) Griffin of El Cajon, Calif., Dianna (Dave) Fenton of Moravia and Ginny (Dave) Brewer of Albia; two grandchildren, Joe Griffin and Sarah (Ryan) Howard; and two great-granddaughters, Lyric and Luna Howard. Virginia is also survived by several nieces and nephew and her kitty companion, Maudie Mae Elizabeth Taylor.
Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a grandson, Wesley; a sister, June (Cliff) Boardman; and a brother, Lou (Rosemary) Zaring Flahive.
Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Tharp Funeral Home in Albia; with Pastor Lynda Carlson officiating. Burial will be in Oak View Cemetery in Albia.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home with Virginia’s family present throughout the day and evening.
Memorials may be directed to Hospice House of Wapello and Davis County.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.tharpfh.com.
