Virginia Essig Reid (Gin), 88, widow of Robert William Reid, Sr., passed away on September 19, 2023. Born in New York, she had been a resident of the Peninsula since 1973. She was a devoted member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Hampton and actively participated in their RCIA Program. Gin volunteered her services at Saint Vincent's Soup Kitchen and Meals on Wheels. She prided herself on advocating for the oppressed and overlooked. Gin was a consummate caregiver, providing support to families through Respite services, particularly those with special needs children and young adults. Her passion for helping others within the community was her "calling," and she put it to good use by leading a special needs daycare program through the Hampton Newport News Community Services Board. Even after her retirement, she continued to assist families of special needs children and young adults, and she even opened her heart and home as a foster parent. All this while she cared for her husband, who suffered from Parkinson's disease.

Gin had a deep love for all animals and rescued and, on numerous occasions, adopted countless stray dogs, cats, and even the occasional injured bird. She was an exceptional wife and mother, deeply caring for her family and neighbors. She was always the first to offer help, and she loved her family and friends, serving as empathetic counsel and always willing to share her insights and wisdom.

Virginia is survived by her son, Robert W. Reid, Jr., daughter-in-law Kathie Reid; daughter, Audra Weaver; grandchildren; nephew and her beloved Cairn Terrier, Bailey.

The Reid family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Mennowood Retirement Community, especially those in the Memory Care unit, for their exceptional support and care, which enriched Gin's life to its fullest extent. They would also like to acknowledge the Hospice Team from Virginia Health Services for providing excellent and compassionate care.

Friends who wish to honor Gin are invited to make a donation in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Friday, October 6, 2023, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 100 Harpersville Rd., in Newport News. Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions in Hampton, at 757-825-8070.