Born September 10, 1909, in Indianapolis, Indiana, Virginia Stovall found Los Alamos to be "very primitive" in 1947.

A charter member of the United Church, Virginia became interested in two schools in northern New Mexico, John Hyson School in Chimayo and the Truchas Day Care Center, through her involvement with a Presbyterian women’s organization. For many years, Virginia has collected mittens, hats, toys, and art supplies for the children who attend these schools.

Neighborhood children happily arrive at Virginia’s door to listen to stories or to read to Virginia.

Early childhood memories of a stained glass window in a church led Virginia to pursue the art form. Her stained glass creations are sold at craft fairs, the Betty Ehart Senior Center, and at the Art Center at Fuller Lodge.

Additional biographical material can be found in the Los Alamos Monitor of September 19, 1999.

Written by Karen Nilsson Brandt, copyright ©