Virginia Arline Flynn passed away on Sunday, Aug. 1, 2010. Her 84 years began in Massachusetts, where she lived until shortly after marrying Thomas Joseph Flynn on Oct. 1, 1949. In the years following World War II, they lived briefly in Niagara Falls, N.Y. and then it was off to sunny California. As the wife of a Marine in active service, she learned how to move and set up new households with great frequency. Along the way, she and Tom grew their family to include three children; Kathleen, Dennis and Denise. When the children went to school, she returned to work. She first was employed with Bank of America and then as a civilian at the Naval Weapons Center in China Lake. There she served as the Dispersing Officer responsible for the entire base payroll.

Their family enjoyed camping and boating. Later Virginia and Tom traveled to Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean, the Panama Canal, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and Ireland.

After retiring to Kernville and building their dream home, Virginia and Tom became active in the local VFW post. They both had leadership roles. Later she became a VFW District President and traveled to support posts within her district and at the state conventions. After the death of her husband, Virginia moved to Bakersfield to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her sister, Dorothy St. Pierre of Kernville and her children Kathleen Haworth, Dennis Flynn, Denise Maytubby and her daughter-in-law Sheri Flynn. Her grandchildren include Nichol Maytubby, Bryan Haworth, Joseph Maytubby, Jenee’ Maytubby Charles, Keegan Flynn, Virginia Haworth, Kailey Flynn, Makenzie Flynn, Savannah Haworth and her grandson-in-law Ricky Charles. Two adorable great-granddaughters, Khyla and Kierstyn Charles, will miss their GG. While a resident at Glenwood Gardens, the supportive staff and All Home Care became family. Dr. Memon compassionately cared for Virginia in her last years. Her friends have been many and will miss her as well.

A long life well lived is a blessing beyond measure. On Thursday, Aug. 5 she was laid to rest next to her husband in Kernville. The journey they began together will continue on for those that love them and they will remember that home is both in the heart and where the family gathers.