McGinley, Martha Ann

Martha Ann McGinley, age 74, formerly of Narrows and Richmond Virginia, passed away peacefully in Chilhowie Virginia on August 4, 2020, after a long illness. She was born on May 6, 1946 to Charles Robert McGinley, Sr. and Sadie Lovern McGinley, of Narrows Virginia, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her beloved brother Charles Robert “Bob” McGinley, Jr.

She leaves behind her loving and devoted niece, Heather McGinley Wilson, nephew-in-law, Alexander Wilson, and grandnephews, Charles Wilson and Joseph Wilson, who called her “Auntie”. Among other family and friends are Dreama and David Whittaker.

Martha Ann grew up in Narrows, Virginia, was a 1964 graduate of Narrows High School, and attended Sacred Heart College in North Carolina. She lived in Richmond, Virginia for many years working as an editor for Carter Printing and Cadmus Printing. Once asked the difference in reading for pleasure and editing for work, she replied simply that when she was editing she always had a red pen in her right hand.

Martha Ann had an artistic soul. She had a penchant for finding beauty in mediocre items. She possessed a lovely soprano voice and a wonderful sense of humor. She was a sweet and kind soul, who genuinely loved her family and friends. Deeply spiritual and committed to her adopted Catholic faith, she was widely read in a variety of spiritual traditions. She often and quietly expressed her spirituality and deep care for others through quiet acts of service which included volunteering for the Richmond Animal League and for Little Sisters of the Poor.

Special thanks to the staff and caregivers at Valley Healthcare in Chilhowie, Virginia whose daily care and devotion is an example to all. And to Nancy, Martha Ann’s “Mama Bear” at VHC, we will always be grateful for your love, concern, and prayers for Martha Ann during your years together.

A graveside service will take place Saturday, August 8 at 11am in Fairview Cemetery, Narrows Virginia with Father Anthony Senyah officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the cemetery, and visitors will need to wear masks.

The family is being served by Givens-Riffe Funeral Service in Narrows, (540)276-2442 and online at riffefuneralservice.com.

Family members request no flowers, and instead ask that you honor Martha Ann’s memory with acts of kindness to people, animals, and God’s creation.