Virginia May (Washington) Love was born on May 20, 1938 to Booker T. Washington and Helen May (Pressley) Washington, the third of six children in Providence, Rhode Island. She was raised on the East Side of Providence in Fox Point and Wayland Square.
A graduate of Hope High School, Virginia followed in the footsteps of her father and older brother, Bernard, and became a licensed barber. She was the first female licensed professional barber in the state of Rhode Island. In addition to her pioneering work as a barber, Virginia later worked as a CNA.
Virginia had a lifelong commitment to Christian ministry and God used the ‘work of her hands’ to be a blessing to many. From cooking meals at Roaring Brook camp, to her work as a gifted seamstress, Virginia delighted in meeting the needs of those around her in tangible ways. She sewed dresses for her sister, cut the hair of hers sons and grandsons, and cooked specials meals and treats for her family, friends and community. Chocolates chip cookies, blueberry pie and pancakes with blueberries she picked herself were among her favorite treats to share with loved ones.
Virginia also enjoyed singing and in her early years, often traveled and sang with her siblings at church events. She enjoyed gardening and cultivated plants for many years. Above all, she cherished her family and loved them deeply.
Virginia went home to glory on May 19, 2025. Left to celebrate her memory are her sons, Michael (Tracie) Love and Kenneth (Dee) Love; her siblings Bernard (Janet) Washington, Barbara (John) Rogers, and Raymond (Maria) Washington; a host of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her son, Thomas A. Love, her parents Booker T. Washington, Sr. and Helen (Pressley) Washington; and her brothers Booker T. Washington, Jr. and Charles Washington.
A visitation hour will be held on May 31, 2025 at 10 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at Faith Community Church, 93 Stanwood Street in Providence, RI.
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