MILESTONES » OBITUARIES

Virginia Lamphier - 07/08/2010

Fayette resident, Virginia Donnell Lamphier, 72, died July 8^th, 2010, after a lengthy, but courageous battle with cancer, at her daughter’s home in Anchorage, Alaska. She was surrounded in warmth and love. Virginia was born November 1^st, 1937, in La Porte City, Iowa. She was the daughter of Evelyn and Julius Lamos and graduated from La Porte City High School in 1955. Virginia married her husband, Jack Lamphier, the love of her life, after graduating high school. She devoted her life to her family and was a dedicated wife and mother. After her own children were grown, Virginia spent her days caring for many of the children in Fayette while their parents worked.

Jack and Virginia loved to travel. After Jack passed away, Virginia spent much of her time with her daughters in Georgia and Alaska and many places in-between. She embraced life, loved being around people and was a welcomed addition to any gathering, wherever she went. She loved to collect recipes and try them. She enjoyed reading and would share that passion by reading stories to anyone that asked. Virginia was well known for her enthusiastic holiday displays, which were enjoyed by all. The radio was always on at her house and she was always listening and singing along and dancing. Her joy was infectious whether it was for a bird at the feeder, or a flower in her garden. She was gentle, kind and compassionate. Her smile could light up a room.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998, Virginia fought the disease with the dignity and determination of a warrior. She was an inspiration to all she came in contact with for her courage and her sense of humor. She was a tireless advocate for breast cancer awareness and research.

Virginia is survived by her children, Debra Frazier (John) of Sioux City, Iowa, Jaclyn Deffenbaugh (Ron) of Anchorage, Alaska, Todd Lamphier (Julie) of Leavenworth, Kansas and Helann Boudewyns of Dacula, Georgia, five grandchildren, Travis Lamphier, Jessie Lamphier, Josh Lamphier, Scott Frazier and Kaleb Boudewyns, and great grandson Jack Lamphier Jr. She is also survived by her brother, John Lamos of California, beloved family friend Bradley Minger of Fayette, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack, two brothers, Robert and Jim and two sisters, Helen Anna and Marcella.

A graveside service will be held at the Lima cemetery, with a celebration of Virginia’s life to follow at the Lima church, in Fayette, Iowa, October 2^nd. Virginia asked that everyone dress comfortably and wear something pink in support of the continued fight against breast cancer.

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