Mary Virginia Traylor

With heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, the family announces the peaceful passing of our beloved Ginny into the loving arms of her Savior Jesus Christ. She lived her entire life with this journey in view. Her family and those who knew her take comfort in knowing she is walking with God and her soul is at peace. Mary Virginia Risher-Traylor was born Oct. 27, 1941. She was affectionately known as Ginny to most people but adoringly named “GG” by her grandkids. Ginny was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, friend and a spiritual leader to many. She embraced a life guided by a faith that was awe inspiring by those who witnessed it daily. She embodied the teachings of Christ through her gentle spirit, unwavering kindness and boundless love for others. She attended George S. Gardiner High School in Laurel. The beginning of a lifelong love story with a fellow student Wayne Traylor started at this high school. Her incredible thirst for knowledge led her to study at the University of Southern Mississippi. Her vibrant spirit and innate leadership, apparent from being head cheerleader in high school and college, to being elected president of the Tri Delta Sorority. She received many prestigious awards for her academic achievements as well. Her family would swear she was born with a book in her hand and her ability to focus while reading was uncanny. After graduation, she worked for the National Organization of the Tri Delta Sorority, allowing her to travel to various university chapters in the U.S. Wayne and Ginny’s love story continued from high school and they were married on July 12, 1964. She was a French and history teacher at R.H. Watkins High School in Laurel for four years. After the birth of her three daughters, she found a career in real estate and managed Vintage Realty and Interiors. She eventually purchased this business and was a successful business owner doing something she loved. The Traylor family had to put life as they knew it on hold when their oldest daughter Tracy was in a tragic car accident. She was in a coma for eight months and suffered a traumatic head injury. After years of therapy and rehabilitation, Tracy transitioned home to live out her life. Tracy required total care, from being unable to feed herself, walk on her own or even communicate. Wayne and Ginny with their unwavering and unconditional love and support provided Tracy with all of her needs and facilitated a home environment where all three of their daughters felt loved and nurtured. While home as Tracy’s caregiver they created some jewelry that incorporated Christian symbols and teachings. This became not only a therapeutic activity for Tracy but grew into a worldwide ministry that touched so many lives and hearts. Wayne and Ginny’s unshakeable love for each other and ability to face the challenges and hurdles are a testament to their unfading love and respect for each other. They exemplified the virtues of selflessness and complete faith in God, and are truly inspiring to all who know them. Ginny’s walk with God was not merely a belief but a way of life that guided her every action and was a beacon of hope to everyone she encountered. Her deep understanding and knowledge of the Scriptures made her jewelry, Bible studies, Sunday school classes and her two published books are just a few examples of her faith, integrity and amazing capability to live a life to the fullest. Ginny was preceded in death by her parents Lindsay and Ruby Lee Risher; and sister Alice Rose Risher-Bell. She is survived by her husband Wayne Traylor; her daughters Tracy, Janie and Susie; along with her grandkids Della and Reed. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends, who were profoundly touched by her grace, wisdom and unconditional love. A graveside service for family will be in the Erata gravesite on Wednesday, July 24, at 9:30 a.m. A celebration of Ginny Traylor’s life will follow at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Laurel at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to French Camp Academy and/or The Batson Children’s Hospital at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The family also thanks the nurses and caregiving staff at The Claiborne in Hattiesburg, Memory Care Unit and The Heart of Hospice staff for showering her with such love and comfort. They also provided the family reassurance and support during Ginny’s struggle with Vascular Dementia. We take comfort in knowing that Ginny has now been called to her eternal home, where she will rejoice in the presence of her Lord and Savior. May her soul rest in peace, and may her legacy of faith continue to shine brightly in our lives. "Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.'" - Proverbs 31:28-29

Mary Virginia Traylor

October 27, 1941 - July 20, 2024