Virginia Gail Shipp, 73, of Lakeview, Ark., formerly of Lake Charles, La.,  passed away peacefully on March 11, 2025. She was born on Sept. 10, 1951, in Lake Charles, La., to Byron and Mary Stevenson Morgan. Virginia was a loving wife, sister, aunt, and friend, who touched many lives with her warmth and kindness.

In July 1973, Virginia married the love of her life, Kenneth Shipp, and together they made their home in Lake Charles, La. Virginia had a fulfilling career, beginning with her work at the Port of Lake Charles and later in the Department of Music at McNeese State University, where she worked until her retirement.

In search of a quieter life, Virginia and Kenneth moved to Lakeview, Ark., where she embraced her passions for crocheting, needlepoint, and, most of all, her love of cats.

Virginia is survived by her devoted husband, Kenneth Shipp of Lakeview, Ark.; her brother, Byron “Pat” (Denise) Morgan of Katy, Texas, and her nephew, Jason Morgan of Nashville, Tenn. The family wishes to express appreciation to neighbors, church family, caregivers, Bryan, Theresa, and Rachel for their kindness and care during her days of illness, She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Byron and Mary Morgan.

A Funeral Service was held to celebrate Virginia’s life  at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Bull Shoals, with Pastor Jonathan Norvell officiating. Entombment followed at Kirby’s Tucker Memorial Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Ozark Homeward Bound (non-profit animal rescue) of Harrison, Ark. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services, Bull Shoals, Arkansas. Please visit the online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyand family.com.