Virginia Joy Hovey

Virginia Hovey ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Hallowell & James Funeral Home - Countryside on Mar. 9, 2026.It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of the passing of Virginia Joy Bach Hovey, who died peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at her home in La Grange, Illinois, she was 96.Born on June 3, 1929, at Loretta Hospital in Chicago, Virginia lived a life dedicated to faith, education, and family. A 1951 graduate of Wheaton College with a degree in elementary education, she taught for six years before establishing a kindergarten at Oak Lawn Bible Church in 1955 until 1963.In 1954, she married Everett Hovey and for the next 46 years of her life, she served faithfully as a pastor's wife. Together, they ministered to four congregations: Oak Lawn Bible Church (1955–1963), Oskaloosa Gospel Tabernacle (1963–1971), La Grange Bible Church (1971–1986), and Marion Hills Bible Church (1987–1997).Virginia was known for her spiritual gift of hospitality, often welcoming missionaries and Christian leaders into her home. She was also a gifted pianist, using her evangelistic style to bring hymns to life, and a dedicated teacher who enjoyed leading children's church and speaking at women's events.Following the death of her husband in 2000, Virginia enjoyed traveling with her children. She is survived by her three daughters and their families. Faith and her husband Matt Grider and grandsons Matt Jr and Timothy. Hope and her husband John Buchan, and grandson Jonathan. Joy and her husband Dennis Madison and grandson Samuel.Virginia always reminded us that "family sticks together," and we intend to honor that legacy in the years ahead.Visitation is Wednesday, March 11th from 5pm-9pm at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th Street Countryside. Services, Thursday, March 12th at 11am at LaGrange Bible Church, 850 7th Ave, LaGrange. Private Interment.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Virginia's name to Marion Hills Bible Church, 142 Plainfield Rd, Darien, IL, 60561.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.