Virginia R. Nowell

Virginia R. Nowell, 88, passed away on October 13, 2021 in Fairfax, VA. Virginia lovingly devoted her life to her late husband of 65 years, John F. Nowell, her daughters, Lauren Kilgo and Lesley Nowell, and grandchildren, Ainsley, Grayson and Jeremy.

She was born in Memphis, TN and graduated with honors from Proviso Township High School near Chicago, IL. Virginia attended the University of Maryland and graduated with a degree in Secondary Education with concentrations in English and Spanish. At the University of Maryland, she met her future husband; they married in the Memorial Chapel on campus in 1954. Virginia taught for many years while John completed his medical degree. She then assisted him in establishing and managing his solo medical practice in ophthalmology.

Virginia enjoyed attending music and theater performances with her family at the National Theatre, the Kennedy Center, and Wolf Trap. She was devoted to supporting her daughters’ many activities including music, dance, and sports. Virginia also delighted in attending her grandchildren’s music and band activities.

Virginia and John were Terrapin Club members and attended many Maryland basketball games. Virginia was an officer in the Falls Church Music Club where she enjoyed hosting meetings and socializing with music aficionados. She was active in her Tri Delta alumni organization and participated in philanthropic activities to defeat childhood cancer.

Virginia was most passionate about her family. She was a woman of integrity and determination who set the highest standards for herself in all aspects of her life. Her meticulous attention to detail always resulted in excellence.

A private ceremony will be held in her honor. Interment will be at National Memorial Park, Falls Church, VA. In lieu of flowers, a charitable memorial contribution can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. https://www.stjude.org/donate