Virginia Lorene Roby

Virginia or Ginny was a fun loving and energetic person. She was adventurous and traveled the world. She was born in Cunningham, TX in 1922 and was raised on a farm. When she graduated from high school, she knew that she never wanted to become a farmer's wife, so she joined the NAVY! She had always said, that her “NAVY years were some of the best years of her life!"

Her love for travel flourished beginning when she lived in Germany with her late husband, Milford Clair who was a Navy Commander pilot, and 2 children in the early 1950's. In her spare time, she oil painted and loved to sew clothes for her daughter and granddaughter. Later in life, at 80 years old that is, “Gin” married her high school sweetheart, Harold Roby. Not only did “Gin” think he was a perfect husband, but her family loved him just as much! There were also many moments of gratitude and pride for her country, the USA. She was America's biggest fan and knew the importance of respecting our country's flag and founding principles. She was witty and loved to tell many hilarious jokes. Ginny loved to be the life of the party!

Her dear friends were those from church with whom she traveled to places around the world like Europe and Israel. The stories of her travels have enriched our lives and her spirit will continue to do so.

For most folks, Virginia Roby will be remembered as Virginia. For us at the Grassmyer home, she will forever be remembered as “Nanny”. Nanny had a quick wit, a sharp tongue, and quite an arsenal of jokes pertinent to most things she encountered in her daily life. Nanny was polished, poised, and possessed a keen eye for style- and impeccable dresser.

Having mentioned her poise and polish, I must also say that Nanny often surprised us with some rather salty quotes when she got fired up over one thing or another. This was ALWAYS a source of amusement, which she took in stride with the typical high-pitched giggle we all found so endearing. Nanny always enjoyed the times we picked her up in her 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass for her hair appointments. She would comment that we “brought the Yellah Beauty”.

Nanny’s heart, support, generosity, humor, and service to this great country deserve the reverence we offer her today, and for the rest of our lives. She was one of the last of “The Greatest Generation”. She exemplified its values and sacrifice, and we shall forever be in her debt. Thank you Nanny.

We will always love her and miss her.

She is survived by her daughter Joyce and son David, grandchildren, nieces and nephews.