Virgie Mae Kuykendall, 99, of Bishop, California, went to be with her Lord Jesus Christ on April 3, 2025. She was born on July 1, 1925 in Fox, Oklahoma, to Ida and Lee Leming. The family moved to Long Beach, California, where she finished high school and attended Long Beach City College. It was there, at church, where she met the love of her life, Gerald Kuykendall. They were married soon after.

Gerald served our country in the army and was stationed in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where their twins, Dennis and Denise, were born. After being released from the army, when the twins were seven months old, the young family moved to Lone Pine, California in 1955. They later moved to Bishop in 1972, where they built a life filled with love, family, and countless cherished memories. They shared a deep love for the outdoors and spent many joyful days camping and enjoying nature side by side.

The Kuykendall family attended Bethel Chapel Foursquare Church, which is now Oasis of Grace for many years.

Virgie was truly one of a kind. Known affectionately as “Nanny Virgie,” she had a warmth and generosity that made everyone feel at home. She expressed her love in countless ways, but one of the most memorable was through her cooking. Her rolls were a family staple at every gathering, and she always had a fresh-baked banana bread ready whenever the grandkids came to visit. Her home was a place of comfort, love, and laughter—where everyone felt cared for. Whether baking in the kitchen, sharing stories, or simply enjoying each other’s company, Virgie made every moment special. Her love and presence left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Denise (Mark Sprague); her grandchildren, Jason Tetrick (Sunnee), Jereme Tetrick (Gina), and Nancy Morgan (Rick); her greatgrandchildren, Logan Tetrick, Peyton (Blake), Carson, Morgan, Cheyanne, Ashley (Drew), and Jeremiah; and her great-great-grandchildren, Anthony, Landon and Trevor.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gerald; her son, Dennis; her parents, Ida and Lee and her siblings, Vern, Gary, Larry, and Pat.

A service will be held on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 2p.m. at Oasis of Grace located at 528 Central Avenue.

Virgie’s kindness, strength, and deep love for Jesus and her family are her lasting legacy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.