About Mary Virginia Stacey

Mary Virginia Stacey—“MV,” “Virgie,” and affectionately, “The Hornet”—lived a life overflowing with joy, courage, and unmistakable personality. In her fifteen years, she left a mark that will never fade, defined not by how long she lived, but by how fully she loved.

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From the very beginning, Mary Virginia was full of energy, humor, and spark. As a child, her family lovingly called her “Crazy Mary,” a reflection of her lively spirit and quick wit. She had a way of making people laugh when they least expected it, often with a perfectly timed comment or mischievous smile. She loved being the center of a good story—especially her own.

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She was fiercely independent and entirely her own person. As a twin, she shared a deep and special bond with her twin brother Whitman, a relationship filled with loyalty, humor, and just the right amount of bossiness. Her family was her foundation, and she loved them with her whole heart.

 

At just seven years old, Mary Virginia faced a life-threatening medical crisis that changed her life—and the lives of those around her. In that moment when her heart was physically failing, she became not only a fighter, but a teacher. Through her strength and faith, she showed her family what it means to trust in God, even in the most uncertain circumstances. Her recovery was nothing short of extraordinary, and from then on, she lived with a fearless, joyful determination that inspired everyone who knew her.

 

Mary Virginia never met a stranger. She had a natural gift for connecting with people—especially children, the elderly, and animals—who were drawn to her warmth and gentle confidence. She dreamed of becoming a kindergarten teacher, hoping to share the same love and encouragement that came so naturally to her.

 

She found joy in everything she did. Whether playing tennis and golf, riding horses (a passion she pursued from the moment she turned five), traveling, serving others, or simply spending time with friends and family, Mary Virginia lived with enthusiasm and intention. She embraced life fully—laughing often, loving deeply, and always bringing her unique energy wherever she went.

 

Her faith guided her life in quiet but powerful ways. She believed in putting God first, others second, and herself third—a principle she didn’t just learn, but lived. She served others with joy, giving her time and heart generously, and reminding those around her of what truly matters.

 

Perhaps the simplest and most profound truth about Mary Virginia was something she said as a little girl: “Things don’t matter. People do.”

It was a lesson she carried throughout her life—and one she leaves behind for all of us.

 

Mary Virginia’s legacy is one of light, laughter, resilience, and love. She taught us to find joy, to serve others, to trust in God, and to never take a single moment for granted.

 

Through this fund, her spirit lives on—encouraging all of us to love like Mary Virginia and to make a difference in the lives of others.