WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Virginia R. King, age 100, of Three Rivers, passed away Thursday, April 24, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.
She was born March 19, 1925 in Traverse City, the daughter of Leon C. and Ila May (Bigger) Baker. Her family moved to Indiana, but when her mother passed away, 12-year-old Virginia went to live with a farmer and worked on the farm.
Returning to Michigan, she took a job at Newberry’s Department Store, where fellow employee Dora King introduced Virginia to her brother, Willard King Jr. The two married in 1943 and shared 68 years together prior to his passing in 2011. They enjoyed visiting Tahquamenon Falls, Virginia’s brother in the service, and a variety of historical sites.
Virginia also did ironing for Dr. Griffin and Stockwell, took care of Haydia Mayer across the street, and in her later years worked as a fry cook at Arby’s – retiring in 2013. Always determined and hard-working, she never wanted to put off until tomorrow what she could do today.
She loved the Lord and was a member since 1962 of the Church of Christ, where she taught Sunday School for many years. An avid crocheter, her afghans and doilies could be found all over town. Recently she enjoyed doing puzzles, which then were laminated and framed.
Remaining to cherish her memory are two sons, Michael (Cindy) King and Howard (Dawn) King; daughter, Gail Crespo; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Willard King Jr.; daughter, Carol Hicks; two sons-in-law, Carlos Crespo and Terry Hicks; foster child, Al McGlothlen; two brothers, William Trump and Carl Trump; two sisters, Alice Baker and Shirley Schull.
Her family will receive friends Monday, April 28, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, April 29, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Mike King and Jesse King officiating. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery.
Donations in Virginia’s memory may be directed to Norton Elementary, of whose craft fair she was always very supportive. Envelopes will be available at Hohner Funeral Home.
