Virginia McNally

(From Parker Mortuary)

Born in Joplin, Missouri, on October 13, 1920, Virginia was raised by her mother Viola and stepfather Robert (Bob) Grossman. She loved music and dancing, often remembered the Connor Roof, was a member of Joplin High School’s Drum and Bugle Corps, and later was part of a singing trio. She and several friends started Alpha Tau Omega, a women’s social club, of which she was the first president. She was also several times president of the Joplin Woman’s Club. She enjoyed playing bridge with a close group of friends.

In December 1941 she married William (Bill) Owen spending the next four years traveling with Bill to various Navy Air Force stations, where Bill was flight training officer. Back in Joplin, after a stint in partnership with Thurman Wilson running the C & A Barbecue, Bill and Virginia ran Bill Owen's Barbecue in Webb City. Then, together with Bill’s brother, Virgil Owen, they ran The Elms Motel and The Sands Motor Lodge. After their divorce in 1963 Virginia entered into retail and home decorating working for Boyington’s Shoes, Kassab’s Fine Clothing, Newton’s Jewelry, and Sears.

In 1972 she and Jack McNally married in Joplin; he preceded her in death in 2004. They belonged to Twin Hills Country Club, where Virginia joined the “Hole in One” hall of fame. She was an accomplished painter, mostly doing landscapes and still paintings, but also some lovely porcelain painting.

Virginia was a member of First United Methodist Church. Cremation will be handled by Parker Mortuary in Joplin and a memorial service will be held early in the summer.

Virginia is survived by sons David Owen and wife, Kitty M. Helland, Steve Owen and his wife Phyllis, grandson Robert Owen, step-sons Dick McNally and wife Janet, Steve McNally, Mike McNally and wife Lou. Memorial contributions in Virginia’s memory can be made to Alzheimer's Association in care of the mortuary.