Virginia Lee Paul

Virginia Lee Paul, a beloved resident of Bainbridge Island, Washington, passed away peacefully at her home on October 16, 2023. She was born on January 1, 1932, in Flint, Michigan, to her parents, Paul and Leita Pike. Virginia's life was marked by a profound dedication to education, family, friends, and her faith.

Virginia spent the first 37 years of her life in her hometown of Flint, Michigan, before starting a new life in Tacoma in 1969, where she resided for 35 years. She moved to Bainbridge in 2003 where she was part of an amazing network of friends. She remained on Bainbridge Island until her passing.

A lifelong learner, Virginia obtained both a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts degree in Education from the University of Michigan. During her time at the university, she was a member of Gamma Phi Beta and the Mortar Board. She joined Delta Kappa Gamma upon receiving her teaching degree as she started a career marked by her commitment to women in education.

Virginia's professional journey was a testament to her passion for education. She began as a dedicated teacher, investing 20 years in the classroom and as a reading specialist. Her commitment to education led her to become a principal and work in administration for 22 years. She was active in the National Education Association (NEA) as well as the local Flint MI and Federal Way WA Education Associations. Her efforts were recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious "Who's Who in American Education" and an honor from the National Education Task Force on Women's Rights.

Her faith was an integral part of her life, and she was an active member of the Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church on Bainbridge Island, where she found solace and a sense of community.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Leita Pike, her brother and sister Frederick Pike and Mary Christian. She is survived by her son, Wallace Miller, and her daughters, Mary Crosby and Martha Tejera. Her legacy continues through her cherished

grandchildren: Paige Tejera, Ann Mhoon (Miller)and Susan Miller, Loren and Paul Camarillo, Mason and Maxwell Tejera, and her great-granddaughters Katie and Olivia Camarillo and Emilia (Milly) Tejera.

In honor of Virginia's memory, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Seattle Symphony, reflecting her enduring love for the arts and her commitment to community support. 

Virginia Lee Paul will be remembered for her unwavering dedication to education, her faith, and her loving presence in the lives of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Arrangements entrusted to Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.