Obituary of Virginia A. Atherley

Reverend Virginia (Ginny) A. (McKee) Atherley, 92 passed away on May 16, 2024. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Ginny was born on May 17,1932 in New York City to Moses and Claire McKee. She spent her formative years there and went on to attend Hunter College. Ginny worked as a General Manager for Copy Machine Supply in Poughkeepsie, NY for 10 years. After raising her children , she attended Hartford Seminary, and Bangor Theological Seminary (Bangor, Maine) obtaining her Master of Divinity in 1985. Ginny then became the minister of the Childwold Presbyterian Church before becoming an ordained minister. Upon becoming ordained Ginny worked at Lincoln Hall, where she was responsible for the religious activities of 200 at risk delinquent boys. After retiring Ginny became a moderator for the Childwold Presbyterian Church. She continued to perform many of her duties for friends and family. Several of her grandchildren were blessed when she was able to perform their marriages. Ginny enjoyed reading, sewing, cooking, and gardening. Her green thumb was spectacular as many can attest to her beautiful gardens that she maintained well into her 80’s. She loved to cook and put on dinners or plan parties and special events for friends and family. But most of all Ginny enjoyed spending time with her family and creating lasting memories. Ginny is survived by her three children Claire Grinnell, Robin Dupuis, David Atherley, her five grandchildren Alison, Kevin, Meagan, Andrew and Danielle, and her seven great grandchildren Kiernan, Aiden, Ellis, Serena, Liam, Philip, and Elliot. Ginny was predeceased by her parents Moses and Claire (Lichety) McKee, and her sister Dr. Marion McKee. Ginny’s memory will be cherished by all who knew her. A private service and burial will be held for the family and close friends. Arrangements are under the care of Bruso-Desnyoyers Funeral Service in Malone. Donations in her memory may be made to the following organizations: The Tupper Lake Wild Center, Breast Cancer or Macular Degeneration.