Virginia Faye Pope Williams was born February 2, 1952, to Carrie Virginia Wheeler Pope and Frank D. Pope Sr. Both parents and one brother, Frank Pope Jr., preceded her in death.

Virginia attended D.A. Holmes Elementary School, graduated from Southeast High School (class of 1970) and attended the University of Kansas. After returning from college, she was employed by the Kansas City, MO School District.  Due to a decline in health, Virginia was no longer able to work full-time; however, she was determined to live her life to its fullest by serving her church and community. She worked at a local bank, was an advocate with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) and served as the church secretary for Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. In her later years, Virginia worked part-time at the American Jazz Museum and the Urban League of Greater Kansas City, leaving an impact every step of the way.

On May 11, 1958, under the leadership of Rev. Isaiah H. Henderson Jr., Virginia confessed her belief in Christ and joined the Friendship Baptist Church. She influenced countless lives while teaching and counseling during her 65 years of service to the church. Virginia's list of ministry work included Senior High Sunday School Superintendent, Jemima Byrd/Hannah Circle Chairperson, Youth Fellowship Counselor, Baptist Training Union (BTU), Choir and the Judah Sheepfold.

As a civic leader, Virginia dedicated her time to serving her community. In 1988, her powerful story of strength and triumph was featured in the Kansas City Star , where she was quoted saying, "I have limits.

But I don't feel I have any limitation." In 1992, Virginia was elected as the 14th Ward Democratic Committee Woman for Jackson County. She also served on several committees and commissions for the City of Kansas City, MO and was President of the Santa Fe Neighborhood Association.

Virginia was known for her positivity, exuberant personality and ability to make everyone she met feel like family. Even though often in pain with mobility and visual limitations, Virginia encouraged others with an attitude of thanksgiving and gratefulness. She was a true Christian witness.  At home, she could be found solving puzzles and playing games on her tablet, talking on the phone, or often giving advice – even when you didn't ask!

A matriarch, mother, sister, aunt, friend, giver, leader, confidant and faithful servant of the Lord, Virginia will be truly missed and fondly remembered by family and friends. She leaves to cherish her memory: son, Jason D. Williams; brother, George B. Pope; nephew, Brandon K. Pope; niece, Ailey Pope; uncles, William "Bill" Wheeler Sr., and Franklin "Mike" Wheeler Sr.; special daughters, Qiana Burns, Jamilaa Ferrell, Jamalaa Ferrell and Sagirah "Tawi" Ferrell-Webb (Michael); adopted grandchildren, Kason Williams, Taviaun Ferrell, Jaylon Wilson, Aniyah Webb and Elijah Webb; and a host of cousins, friends and other family members.

Indeed, this is the life and history of a faithful servant of God.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.