Virginia Tawney Lopez-Whitecalf, a beacon of light and love, passed away peacefully of natural causes on the 3rd of November, 2024, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Born on January 18, 1954, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, Virginia’s vibrant spirit and loving nature touched the lives of many throughout her 70 years.
Educated and resourceful, Virginia earned her GED with determination and a thirst for knowledge. She furthered her education by attending Oglala Lakota College and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, where her passion for learning and helping others flourished. Her career was a testament to her caring heart, as she served her community as a Certified Nurse Practitioner, providing compassionate care and support to those in need.In addition to her professional work, Virginia shared her wisdom and love for education as a Middle School tutor in Pecos, New Mexico. She was a nurturing and guiding presence in the lives of her students, fostering a love for learning that would last a lifetime. Virginia’s role as a mother and grandmother was paramount, and she embraced it with the entirety of her being, leaving behind a legacy of love and wisdom.Her voice was not only heard in the tender advice she offered but also in the music she played as a Disc Jockey at the South Dakota School of Mines in Rapid City. Virginia’s infectious enthusiasm for life was evident in her interests, which included creating beautiful artwork, playing the piano with grace and passion, and attending Pow Wows, where she celebrated and honored her rich cultural heritage.Virginia’s love for travel reflected her belief that the world was a book and those who did not travel read only one page, echoing the words of Saint Augustine. This philosophy took her on many adventures, each one an opportunity to meet new people and embrace different cultures. To say that Virginia never met a stranger would be an understatement; she saw every encounter as a chance to make a new friend and to share her boundless love and kindness.Described by those who knew her as intelligent, spirited, and loving, Virginia’s legacy is one of unwavering positivity and a zest for life that inspired all around her. She is survived by her loving family, including her daughter Athena King-Whitecalf, son Michael Whitecalf-Romero, and son Bill Rafuse. Each of them carries forward her spirit of compassion, understanding, and love.Virginia’s life was a journey of joy, learning, and love—a journey that did not end with her passing but continues on through the lives she touched and the memories she created. As the poet Rumi once said, “Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation.”
In her passing, Virginia Tawney Lopez-Whitecalf leaves a void in the hearts of those who loved her, yet they find comfort in the warmth of her memory and the knowledge that her spirit remains ever-present, guiding and encouraging them to live life to the fullest, as she so beautifully did. Her journey on this earth may have ended, but her story continues to inspire, her laughter continues to echo, and her love continues to shine as brightly as ever.
Friends and family may sign the online guest register and leave written condolences at WestRiverFuneral.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Dean Moncur at West River Funeral Directors in Rapid City.
