Obituary of Virginia Gwaltney

On June 13th, 2025, we lost one of the greatest souls ever to walk this earth. Virginia Jo Gwaltney, “Ginni” to those who knew and loved her, was born on July 14th, 1956, to William and Jo Ann Gwaltney. 

She is survived by her two children Amy Torrez and William “BJ” Baker; cherished grandchildren Jace Torrez and Payton Baker; loving sister, Cindy Booty and her husband Bo; niece, Melissa Bradshaw-Mitchell and husband Chris; great-nieces, Jordyn Bradshaw and Aria Lee and great-nephew Carlos Rhodes Jr. also carry on her legacy.

But Ginni’s definition of family extended far beyond biology. She had an extraordinary way of welcoming people into her heart and her life. Her extended family includes her closest friend, her “bonus daughter” Andra Powers and Andra’s husband Clent, along with their children Shyanne, Abi, Andru, and Logan. Ginni also had dear friends like Darrel, John, Jennifer, Jessica, Debbi, and of course, her bestie Bobby. This incredible circle of love stood by her through her final journey, staying with her through her diagnosis and until the morning she gained her halo. 

Ginni’s love was unconditional. Her home was always a safe and welcoming space, especially for those she loved. While she often preferred her own quiet company and didn’t care much for crowds, those she loved were always welcome and we’d often bring the party to her. In her last months, she was never alone. Surrounded by her tribe, her people, her heart family, she was held in love every step of the way. The bond between Ginni and Andra especially was something beyond words; deep, pure, and powerful. Andra may not have been her biological child, but their connection was no less real. 

Ginni had a personality all her own, bold, sharp, loving, generous, hilarious, stubborn, fiercely independent, and strong-willed. If you knew her, you knew that she would absolutely speak her mind and if you didn’t like it, she’d tell you exactly what she thought about that, too. But behind that sass and strength was a heart that simply wanted to love and be loved. One of her greatest joys was making others feel seen and cared for, even strangers. Whether it was a refrigerator on the porch stocked with snacks and drinks for delivery drivers, or generous tips for servers, Ginni found joy in small acts of kindness. She also had a few unique loves like ginger ale (which she loved more than anyone), mini muffins, and Coke freezes. Those small pleasures were a bright spot for her. 

Ginni was a lifelong resident of La Porte and a devoted member of the community. A true animal lover, she cared for all kinds over the years, ferrets, raccoons, turtles, fish, cats, and especially dogs. Her three beloved dogs were her heart, and she made sure they would be lovingly cared for by her dear friend Tina. Romeo, her oldest, even cried when he saw her for the last time, proof of the bond they shared. 

Another passion of hers was collecting Fenton glass. She loved the beauty, history, and the thrill of the hunt, scouring thrift stores for treasures and participating in online auctions. But more than anything, it was the fun and connection that mattered to her. 

It’s impossible to fit Ginni’s life onto just one page. She lived fully, with love, with fire, with humor, and with grace. Even when she received her 12-week diagnosis, she didn’t shed tears for herself, only for the ones she loved. She was focused on making sure everyone else would be okay. That was just who she was. 

In her own words, she told us: 
“Don’t worry, I’m winning. You’re the ones losing.” 

She’s with her mom and dad now, waiting to greet us at the gate. 

God gave us a gift in Ginni. A guardian here on earth and now she continues her work as an angel watching over us from above. 

We love you, Ginni. Thank you for everything. We'll hold you in our hearts forever and look forward to the day we can hug you again.