Virginia Helen (Townsend) Binns

Virginia Helen (Townsend) Binns passed away at the age of 93 on Wednesday, April 3, 2024.

Born on June 25, 1930 in Cayuga, NY to Erle B Townsend and Lura Durnford Townsend, Virginia was the second of 10 children and their oldest daughter. She helped to raise her younger siblings and then raised 9 children of her own alongside her husband of 60 years, William Binns whom she married on March 5, 1948. Virginia worked hard at all she did and was very proud of her family, her work, her house keeping, and her garden.

She is predeceased by her husband and parents, as well as siblings Robert Townsend, Frederick Townsend, John Townsend, Carl Townsend, and Florence Kirk, granddaughter Mandy Kim, and great grandson, James.

She is survived by her siblings: Richard (Joan) Townsend, Harold (Grace) Townsend, Shirley Mosher, Marian (Bill) Mantz, and spouses Mabel Townsend, Betty Townsend and Richard Kirk; her children: Phyllis (Tim) Costello, William (Patty) Binns, Sharon (Wayne) Pettit, Michael (Brenda) Binns, Mark (Nadine) Binns, John (Rebecca) Binns, Donna (Larry) Perkins, Donald (Cathy) Binns, and B. Scott (Darlene) Binns; a daughter in law, Debbie Binns-Carp; as well as 20 grandchildren, 43 great grandchildren, and 6 great great grandchildren. She had her hands and heart full and left a long legacy of people who loved, respected, and cared for her, including the staff on the 7th floor of The Commons on St. Anthony where she spent her final years. She received wonderful care there, and her family is so thankful. 

Calling hours are scheduled at Shurtleff Funeral Home, 10117 State Route 90, Genoa at 1:00 pm on Sunday, April 7.  A celebration of life will begin at 2:00 pm, followed by committal at Evergreen Cemetery in Scipioville.  Friends and family are invited to share a meal and memories at the Scipio Fire Hall afterward. 

Memorial donations are graciously directed to the Alzheimers Association of CNY (https://act.alz.org ), 5015 Campuswood Dr., Suite 102, East Syracuse, NY 13057, or to a charity of one's choice.  Condolences may be shared at www.shurtleffservices.com .