Virginia Walton Pilegard of Wishon, California, passed away January 13, 2022, at the age of 79. She was born on December 21, 1942, in Fresno, California, to Ralph and Helen Walton and was raised in foothills of Hildreth, California. While working in Jone’s Store at Beasore Meadows, she met the love of her life, Richard Pilegard, and they wed on August 30, 1963. They remained happily married for 58 years.
Virginia graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Fresno and a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Mathematics from Fresno Pacific University. She was an elementary school teacher in Fresno and became a world-renowned award-winning author of mathematical adventure children’s picture books. She also penned Christian contemporary mystery/romance novels.
The most important part of Virginia’s life was her passion for Christ. Over the years, she was a strong leader at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Easton and Sierra Pines Church, Oakhurst. She was involved in a variety of ministries such as, leading Bible studies, participating in prison education and ministry, mentoring Celebrate Recovery groups, and speaking at women’s faith conferences. Virginia also had a passion for quilting and loved being a part of Sierra Pines Church’s prayer quilt ministry group, Blessed Piecemakers. She lived out her faith inspiring those around her, even while in hospice.
She is survived by her husband Richard Pilegard, her brother Ralph Walton and his wife Nancy, her sons: Neil Pilegard and wife Barbara, Timothy Pilegard and wife Debbie, William Pilegard and wife Melissa, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, and dear friends.
Remembrances can be made to the Fresno Mission.
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