Virginia Brenton Mahaney , August 13, 1931 — June 22, 2018

Virginia “Jiggs” Mahaney of Wilbraham and Tequesta FL passed away on June 22, 2018 after a short illness. Jiggs was the loving partner of James Connors, the caring mother of Matt Mahaney and his wife Pam of Springfield and Kerri Mahaney of Gaithersburg MD, the adoring grandmother of Quinn Rudolph also of Gaithersburg MD and the kind great-grandmother of Anthony and Alexis Suarez of Springfield. In addition, Jiggs leaves her “adopted grandchildren,” Brittany Billingsley of Springfield and Stephanie and Nathan Killian of Wilbraham.

Jiggs was predeceased by two husbands: Paul Vosswinkle of Milwaukee, WI and Patrick Mahaney of Wilbraham. Jiggs was born in Torrington, CT on August 13, 1931 and raised in Belmont MA. She is a graduate of Lesley University in Cambridge, MA as well as AIC.

She was a much loved 3rd grade teacher at Green Meadows Elementary school in Hampden for 29 years. Jiggs always brought a wonderful sense of playfulness to the classroom as she knew learning is more effective when you are laughing. If you were in her class, you may have learned history via dolls who traveled the world with all of us and were photographed at important sites.

She had lots of hobbies, mostly crafty. She sewed, quilted, and knitted. She had a long history of loving clothes and collecting antiques, including regular trips to the Brimfield Flea Market.

She had more dolls than any kid on the block. While not known for her cooking, she set a beautiful table that was fit for a Martha Stewart episode. Jiggs was great fun to be with.

She turned the ordinary into fun. Always an optimist, she liked everyone and forgave quickly. Her favorite times were at home with Jim cooking, the table set, and family and friends gathered around.

Jiggs has chosen not to have a funeral (too dreary for her) and would likely appreciate it if, alternatively, you got together with your friends and family and enjoyed yourselves. Instead of flowers or donations, consider forgiving someone or reaching out to a neighbor who could use a friend. We will hold a celebration of her life in August.

Date to be determined and will be posted in the newspaper closer to the event. For more information, please visit Wilbraham Funeral Home online at www. wilbrahamfuneralhome.com.

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