Virginia Willhardt Luken

Virginia Willhardt Luken, 93, of Huddleston, VA, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, joining the love of her life in eternal peace.
Born on January 25, 1932, in Bryan, Ohio, Virginia was the daughter of the late Joseph and Marjorie Horton Willhardt. She began her career in accounting before devoting herself fully to her husband and children, whom she cherished deeply. A talented seamstress, Virginia lovingly crafted much of her children’s clothing in their early years, later turning her skills to making toys, dolls, baby clothes, and stuffed animals—many of which still grace her family’s shelves today. 

Virginia found her greatest sense of freedom and peace on the lake, especially while kayaking—even this past summer. Her love for nature and wildlife was matched by an insatiable curiosity; she was always eager to learn more about the world around her. Over the years, she and her husband traveled across the country, visiting National Parks and marveling at the mountains and vistas they encountered—memories she continued to cherish and speak of often. 

She had a remarkable gift for connecting with people and truly never met a stranger. Her daily walks were a cherished routine, filled with friendly chats with neighbors and keen observations of the deer and foxes she frequently spotted. She kept a running tally of her wildlife sightings, sharing them with her children. Virginia will be fondly remembered for the flocks of ducks that would rush across the water to greet her, and for the meticulous care she gave to her yard—picking up sticks and pulling weeds with unmatched energy. Independent and spirited, she often outworked her children in the yard well into her late 80s. Just weeks before her passing, she was determined to use the lawnmower to collect leaves, insisting she could do it “if she could just get it started.” 

Virginia is survived by her children: Vickie Boyles (Bennie) of Corolla, NC, Michael Luken (Ellen) of Durham, NC, Steve Luken (Becky) of Lincoln, ME, Kimberly Moore (Brian) of Midlothian, VA; her grandchildren: Jackie Labor (Kevin), Katie Hedrick (Ryan), Jared Luken (Taylor), Maeve Luken, Shayna Hando (Chris), Staci Contri, Ashlyn Moore; and her great-grandchildren: Zoie and Ava Labor, James and John Moddle, and Maggie Contri. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond Charles Luken; her son, Raymond Charles Luken Jr.; her siblings Rosemary Mueller, Marilyn Norman, and Edward Willhardt; and her cherished dog, Misty. 

Her legacy is one of vitality, love of family and a deep connection to both people and nature. 

A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Fort Hill Memorial Park, officiated by Rev. M. Anghaarad Teague Dees of Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church, where Virginia was a devoted member for over 50 years. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorial donations be made to the Saunders Volunteer Fire Department (svfc-10.com) or to a charity of your choice. 

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.