Virgil Phinney Jr.

Virgil E. Phinney Jr., age 72 of Gatesville, made his final journey home on December 22, 2024. 

Virgil was born in Bangor, Maine, and will be carried back to be returned to the land and shores he loved so much. He was a lifelong student of the faith, a graduate of Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri and served in whatever way he could, from teacher, to song director, to pastor. His most influential and fulfilling positions though, were as a student of the Word and father. 

He is preceded in his journey by his father, Virgil E. Phinney Sr. He is survived by his mother, Lillian Phinney; his younger sisters, Geraldine Guerrette and husband, Dwight, and Angel Freeman and husband, Richard; his three children, John and wife, Lisa, Emily and husband, Damon, and Andrew; his wife, Jane Ralston Wilson; four nieces and their families; seven grandchildren and their families; six great-grandchildren; and several stepchildren and grandchildren.

No services are currently planned. 

“Should you go first and I remain to finish with the scroll

No lessening shadows shall ever creep in the make this life seem droll

We’ve known so much of happiness we’ve had our cup of joy

And memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy

I want to know each step you take that I may walk the same

For someday down that lonely road you’ll hear me call your name

Should you go first and I remain one thing I’ll have you do

Walk slowly down that long, long path for soon I'll follow you

In that fair homeland we'll know no parting beyond the sunset for evermore.”

                                                                                                Hank Williams Sr.