Virginia Bevillard

Virginia Lee Bevillard, a beacon of love and strength, passed away on April 9, 2024, at the age of 86. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Kenneth Francis Bevillard, with whom she shared 66 years of unwavering love and devotion.

She was born in Oradell, NJ on November 29, 1937. She was the oldest daughter of Russell and Lena Weber. She had an older brother Russie (deceased) and younger siblings: Robert, Linda (deceased) and Carol. She was very close with all of her family, but most especially with her Italian grandmother and grandfather. She would often tell stories about the times she would spend at their home. She would share how they always had a bounty of vegetables from their garden, and how they would make use of every scrap of food to create incredible meals. Her grandmother’s home was a place many would come to from the city for a respite. Virginia created that same legacy in her own home having an open door and open table for all.

Virginia was a scholar athlete. She was the top female athlete of her time in New Milford, N.J. She played and excelled in any and all sports. Ken and Virginia first met and bonded over their mutual appreciation for basketball at the full-size basketball court Virginia had in her backyard. While raising kids in N.J. she coached numerous teams, was the P.E. teacher at the Catholic grammar school and continued to compete herself in softball, bowling and track. She was the greatest fan of her own children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren cheering them on at every event she could.

While living in Cinnaminson, NJ, she worked at Macmillan Publishing company. Her primary career was that of a wife, Mom, homemaker and caregiver. She excelled in this career. Her husband Ken traveled for most of their married life. Therefore, she was home taking care of her family. She provided a home filled with love, expectations, and discipline. She was organized and kept an impeccably clean house. She was an amazing cook, often whipping up a meal for many on a minute’s notice. Her hospitality extended to all. She would often have a houseful of guests that she welcomed with food and love. Her laundry skills were famous. Family members could not wait for Virginia to clean their clothes as she would get them cleaner and smelling fresher than anyone could do it themselves. Though it may seem trivial to some - it was important to her and something she enjoyed and was proud to do.

The Bevillard family had the opportunity to move to Florida in 1980. This was an answer to many prayers as Virginia and Ken loved Florida. They lived in Hollywood, FL for a few years in the early 1960’s. They embraced the Florida lifestyle of fishing, boating and beach days. Virginia basically ran a bed and breakfast for the many visitors who came from up north. Somehow, she managed this while also taking on the role of caregiver. Virginia cared for her parents, aunt and sister in her home. She gave of herself to provide a secure and loving environment in their greatest time of need. This is a glimpse into the type of woman Virginia chose to be. She gave selflessly to others. All who knew her can testify to this.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. She was happiest caring for them and watching them grow and develop. She was their biggest cheerleader and greatest supporter. She never missed an opportunity to send a card on all occasions. It was important to her that those she loved and cared for knew she remembered their special occasions.

Anyone who knows our family, knows we take opportunities (many of them) to gather and celebrate special occasions. Virginia was at the heart of this tradition. She would do what it would take to throw a party, sustain family holiday traditions and enable large family vacations. She had boundless energy. She had a strong faith in God and relied on her Catholic faith through many of the trials and tribulations she endured. She valued education and always wanted the best for her family. Her legacy of love and faith will live on in all the lives she touched. We will continue to sing nursery rhymes to the great-grandchildren, gather around a table of great food and toast two incredible parents/grandparents who gave us so much.

She leaves behind her children: Ken (wife Shelly), Jim (wife Janet), Denise York (husband Ron), Greg (wife Bielka), Grandchildren: Christine Bevillard, Kim Hart (husband Andrew), Brandon Bevillard (wife Alex), Jessica Bevillard, Joshua Bevillard (wife Courtney), Shannon York, Ryan York (wife Julia), Olivia Bevillard, Julian Bevillard, Lucian Bevillard, Great-grandchildren: Jayden Bevillard, Peyton Hart, Hannah Hart, Austin Hart, Blakely Bevillard, Lainey Bevillard, Georgia Bevillard, Brooks Bevillard, Greyson York, sister Carol Zenn (husband Andrew), brother, Robert Weber (wife Linda), sister-in-law Ruthanne Blank, sister-in-law Michelle Cunningham, sister-in-law Christine Bevillard Harris, brother-in-law Hank Bevillard (wife Terri) and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family asks that donations be made to St. Andrew Catholic School, 1509 SE 27th St. Cape Coral, FL 33904