From the Big Timber "Pioneer", August 12-18, 2005:

Virginia Fay O'Dell left this world on Friday, August 5, 2005.

Her mother, Mildred Irene Bandy; father, John Bandy; son-in-law, Scott Gaines; and granddaughter, Amanda Fay Looper, preceded her in death.

Her family was with her at her passing: husband, Ernie O'Dell of Helena; daughter, Cynthia Lee Gaines of Great Falls; son and daughter-in-law, Ernest John and Myrna O'Dell, grandson, Jonathan O'Dell and granddaughter, Naomi O'Dell of East Helena; daughter, Sandra Fey Farrell, granddaughter Candace Looper, and granddaughter, Shaienna Harrell of Great Falls; and grandson, Tyson Marks of Missoula.

Virginia, or "Ginny" as she was fondly called, was born in Juneau, Alaska, January 27, 1939. In 1941 she moved to Columbus with her mother, Mildred, who owned and operated the Liberty Cafe for many years.

She met Ernie at an old-fashioned hoedown dance, and they were married April 13, 1957. They lived in Helena with their three young children for several years before moving to Hawaii, where they lived from 1966 to 1978. Ernie and Ginny moved back to Helena in 1978 and lived there since.

Virginia's family was the center of her life. She spent countless hours involved with youth activities such as Brownies, Girl Scouts of America and Boy Scouts of America. She shuttled not only her own children, but also most of the neighborhood children to many sports activities and events.

Virginia fought a long battle with cancer and other illnesses, but never let it slow herdown. She was an avid bowler, fisherman, gardener, hunter and outdoor photographer, and she still found time to make wonderful apricot jam. One of her favorite pastimes was sitting around the dining table with her family and enjoying hours of reminiscing and laughing over many good times.

There will be a memorial service and day of remembrance at 2:00 p.m. August 13 at 4345 Green Acres Drive, Helena. All who knew her loved Virginia. She was a strong spirited lady, and our "Sarge" will be sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made to St. Peter's Cancer Center, 2475 Broadway, Helena, MT, 59601. Retz Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.