Virginia Ann Orr Rowland, 93, of Gettysburg, PA passed away peacefully in her home and into her heavenly home on Thursday, October 29, 2026. She was surrounded and held by her loving family as she entered into the presence of Jesus.
Virginia (Ginny) was born on February 20, 1933 in Kingston, NY, the daughter of the late John Kline Orr and Fannie Elizabeth Duelly Orr. She is predeceased by her brother, John W. Orr and 2 sisters, Marilyn O. Lunn and Coralie E. Camp. Virginia’s beloved husband of 62 years, Dr. Alex T. Rowland, passed away on May 16, 2015. They were high school sweethearts at Kingston High School. Ginny always looked forward to reuniting with him after his passing.
Alex and Virginia moved from Kingston, NY, to Providence, RI, where Alex received his PhD in Organic Chemistry from Brown University. During this time, they had their first child, Philip Allen Rowland, who resides with his wife, Tina, in Virginia Beach, VA. In 1958, Alex accepted a position as a professor of Organic Chemistry at Gettysburg College, Gettysburg, PA. Not long after, they had their second son, Bruce Evan Rowland, who resides in Carroll Valley, PA, with his wife, Pam.
Ginny was a devoted wife, mother, and friend. She was gracious, kindhearted, pure, and humble. From a very early age she embodied the Fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Throughout her life she maintained these qualities to her very last earthly moments.
She was an oil painter, refinished and caned antique furniture, was an upholsterer, an avid gardener, quilter, seamstress, and embroiderer. Ginny was an incredible cook and baker. Her specialties were cookies, cakes, and pies! The key, she would say, is to always double-sift the flour.
Ginny also volunteered for Meals on Wheels, the Literacy Council, and cared for pre-kindergarten children at a local church. Additionally, she taught pinecone wreath-making for women at the local Adams County Adult Correctional Complex.
Proverbs 27:19 states: “As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.” Virginia’s life reflected a heart of love, a heart of Jesus. She found beauty in all things, taking time to notice details, loving unconditionally, and being the best mother, wife, and friend. We will all miss her.
A private, graveside service will be held in Evergreen Cemetery, Gettysburg, PA. A celebration of Virginia’s life will be held in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, buy the necessary ingredients and bake a batch of Toll House chocolate chip cookies the “Ginny Way”. Use real butter, double-sift the flour and do not overbake. When they are done, say a prayer for your loved ones and, with love, share the cookies with family and friends. Don’t forget the smile.
Online obituary and condolences are available at monahanfuneralhome.com
Source: Monahan Funeral Home