Mary Virginia Winter

Mary Virginia Winter, 94, passed away on April 10, 2017 at Davis Hospice Center, Cheyenne, Wyoming.  She was born on September 27, 1922 at Abilene, the daughter of  Lott and Maude (Davis) Gean.

She moved to Cheyenne five years ago to be near family, but was a longtime resident of Dodge City.  Mary Virginia spent her youth in Dodge City and attended Dodge City Community College, where she met the love of her life, John Winter, a football player from Arkansas.

Mary Virginia became a teacher during World War II, starting in a one room schoolhouse teaching 42 children in fifth and sixth grade.  She eventually got her master’s degree and became a reading teacher.  She touched the lives of many grateful children throughout her career.

Mary Virginia was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She made friends wherever she went, and was very generous and kind to those who needed her.  Her strong faith and love of people guided her whole life.  Mary Virginia was a talented writer and left many stories for her family to enjoy.  She was respected personally and professionally by everyone she knew.  Mary Virginia was an exceptional woman and was loved by many.

She is survived by two sons, John Eric Winter and wife Pam and James G. Winter and wife Diana; a sister, Patricia Ann; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great great-grandchild. They brought her great joy.

A memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church on Saturday May 13, 2017 at 10:00 AM with Tim Suttle presiding.  Memorials are suggested to the First Baptist Church in care of the funeral home.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.