Virginia Ann Plonk Burgess, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away in Lakeland on November 10, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, service, and devotion.

Virginia was born in Tampa, Florida, in 1935, to Floy Hart Plonk and Michael Joseph Thomas Plonk, Jr. Virginia graduated from Sylvan Hills High School in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1953, and Auburn University in 1957. She married the love of her life, Robert "Bob "Edwards Burgess, in 1957. Together, they shared 67 years of devotion and adventure, raising a family and embracing the challenges and joys of life as a Marine Corps family.

A woman of strong faith and unwavering commitment to others, Virginia dedicated her life to serving those around her. She had a natural aptitude for tax preparation and worked for many years preparing personal and later institutional trust taxes. She also volunteered for more than 40 years in church libraries, where her love of learning and literature enriched countless lives. Her generosity continued through 15 years of service with the AARP Tax Program, where she patiently helped others navigate the complexities of tax preparation.

Virginia’s greatest joy was her family. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother and survived by her devoted husband, Bob; four children; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; extended family; and many friends. She treasured every moment with them, filling their lives with unconditional love. Virginia was a gifted and thoughtful correspondent with an amazing ability to stay connected with friends and family despite long distances.

Virginia was an almost fanatical sports enthusiast, following baseball statistics like a coach from an early age until her final season and enjoying nearly every sport like a veteran sportscaster. She delighted in planning activities for visitors to their home in New Mexico and was a gracious hostess known for her hospitality, excellent cooking, and treasured recipes.

In August 2018, Virginia and Bob moved to Lakeland, Florida, to be near family. She found a spiritual home at Lakes Church, and during her six years there, she built meaningful relationships and continued to grow in her faith. Virginia and Bob were faithful members of the Seeker 2 Connect seniors’ group, where they could be counted on every Sunday.

Virginia’s life was a testament to grace, generosity, and devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

Virginia was honored with a private graveside service in Atlanta and a memorial celebration of her life at Lakes Church Chapel in Lakeland, Florida.