Alma Virginia Bundrick Stalnaker

Alma Virginia Bundrick Stalnaker, 89, of Columbia, passed away peacefully from natural causes the morning of October 9, 2022. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Thomas Jesse Stalnaker, who died in 2001.

A lifelong resident of Columbia, Virginia grew up on the "mill hill" with her mother, father, brother, and beloved "little granddaddy." A child of the Great Depression, Virginia often recollected the hardships they and many others suffered during that time period and the importance of family and community. The severity of her childhood had a lasting impact on her. As a result, she was an incredibly generous person, willing to give her last dollar to a stranger in need, even though she lived a very modest life herself. She was also a strong proponent of education, having missed the opportunity to attend high school or college herself. She took great delight in the many graduations of her children and grandchildren. She eventually attended adult learning classes in her 50s and was a lifelong reader who enjoyed studying the Bible.

A fiercely determined and independent woman, Virginia took immense pride in her work ethic, continuing to work until the age of 87 when the COVID-19 pandemic forced a retirement she had never planned to take (once asked about retirement, she jokingly remarked "I'm not a quitter!"). It was with great sadness that she gave up her job at Sunshine Thrift Shop, where she worked as a cashier for over 30 years.

A woman of many contradictions, Virginia could be tough and uncompromising at times, yet big-hearted and empathetic at all times. She was always ready with a hearty laugh, a trait she passed on to her entire family. In her later years, she enjoyed watching movies at home, especially those starring Tom Hanks. Most of all, she enjoyed family gatherings for birthdays and holidays, especially Christmas. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Virginia is fortunate to be survived by all of her children, including Donna Hall, Tommy Stalnaker (Betty), Sheryl Ballard (Ronnie), and Carolyn Monts (Mackey), as well as many loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family would also like to express gratitude to the wonderful people of Crescent Hospice.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, October 14, 2022 at 2:00 pm at Southland Memorial Gardens, arranged by Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, West Columbia Chapel.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.caughmansouthland.com for the Stalnaker family.