Virginia Heinzmann, 92, of Centralia, passed away on October 21, 2024, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia, Illinois. She was born to Albert and Verda Heinzmann on November 11, 1931 in Centralia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Verda (Jensen) Heinzmann.
Virginia is survived by her brother, Paul E. Heinzmann of rural Centralia; nieces and nephews, Nancy Myers (Mark Myers) of Centralia, Dean Heinzmann (Sara Heinzmann) of Peoria, Roger Heinzmann (Val Heinzmann) of Walnut Hill, Janet Heinzmann of Charlottesville, Virginia and David Heinzmann (Donna Heinzmann) of Crystal Lake, Illinois; great nieces and nephews, Melinda Steil (Abbie Steil), Megan Myers, Mark Heinzmann, Michelle Myers, Matthew Heinzmann (Amanda Heinzmann), Alex Heinzmann, Ayla Whittinghill (Cody Whittinghill), Drew Heinzmann, Taylor Heinzmann (fiance’ Jenna Stefanski), Kyle Heinzmann and Ryan DeMaio; great-great nieces and nephews, Madelyn Whittinghill, Addison Whittinghill, Nora Heinzmann and Baby Boy Heinzmann due soon.
Virginia was an inspirational educator for more than 35 years. She began her career teaching first grade in Sandoval, Illinois. She then taught home economics at Centralia City Schools and Centralia High School then finished her career at Kaskaskia College. There, she taught home economics, tailoring, sewing and child development as well as founded the college’s Child Care Center. Her influence was felt by students across these ages and curriculum, as Virginia stayed in touch with many students beyond their work together in the classroom. She was also honored as an Outstanding Educator of America.
Virginia was involved in many community organizations, including as an active member of the Centralia First United Methodist Church and as a member of the Racoon Ramblers Camping Club, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Delta Kappa Gamma and Retired Teachers Association. She enjoyed camping, sewing, playing canasta and pinochle with friends and traveling.
An important presence in the lives of her nieces and nephews and greats, Aunt Ginny loved spending time with her extended family, taking them on trips, celebrating special occasions, teaching them to sew and cook, and spending quality time together throughout the years. Her kindness, warmth, and generous spirit will be greatly missed.
Funeral Services for Virginia Heinzmann will be held Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 11:00 am at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia with Rev. Tony Paulson and Rev. Mark Myers officiating. A Visitation for family and friends will be held on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home in Centralia. Memorial donations may be made to the Centralia First United Methodist Church and will be accepted at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Virginia’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
