Obituary of Dr. Virginia Rovelli

A beautiful soul left this world on Friday, July 1, 2022.  After a long illness, Dr. Virginia Rovelli, Ginny, 88, passed away peacefully at the Glendale Nursing Home, listening to her favorite music with her dear friend at her side.  

Virginia was born February 15, 1934, in Albany, NY, the oldest of 4 children.  Her father died tragically when she was 7 years old, sending her mother into the workforce to support the family.  So began Virginia’s long life of leading others.

At the age of 18, Virginia entered the Sisters of Mercy in Albany, NY.  She eventually became a 1st grade teacher, receiving her bachelor’s degree in Education from the State University of Albany.  After 16 years as a Sister of Mercy, Virginia made the difficult decision to request dispensation of her vows and moved back into the world as a layperson.  

In 1972 Virginia received her Doctorate in Education from The State University of Albany where she went on to become an adjunct professor for several years.  Dr. Rovelli was hired by the Ballston Spa School District as the Director of Reading for Elementary Education.  It was in this role that Dr. Rovelli became a true mentor, leader, teacher, and friend to many.  Her students were the children, but also the teachers and staff members.  Dr. Rovelli was always open and willing to listen, offering support in times of need and crisis.  She was extremely well organized, truly a take charge kind of person.  Everything Dr. Rovelli decided to do was done well, with much thought and planning.

Virginia always had a deep love of dogs, including a Malty-Poo named Caylee, two West Highland White Terriers named Cayce and Cara, and Virginia’s first dog, Jo-Dee, a German shepherd, who was Virginia’s best friend in life.  

Virginia developed and nurtured deep and long-lasting friendships with many people.  She was a spiritual guide to many of her dearest friends, having a lifelong impact to those who knew her best.  Her understanding of God, Jesus, and the love, grace and peace that is available to us all was her greatest gift that she offered openly and willingly to those who were wise enough to hear.

Virginia enjoyed reading, singing and dancing, listening to all types of music, yoga and Tai Chi, and volunteering.  She was truly a woman to celebrate!!

Virginia is survived by her sisters, Mildred Cerefice, Dolores Lotano (Jim), her brother, Jerry Rovelli, several nieces and nephews, and her dearest friends, Kevin and Dona Fragnoli, Rocco and Jan Montesano, Ira and Nadine Baumgarten, and her former star student, Jason Randall.  She was predeceased by her father, Jerome Rovelli, and her mother, Amelia Zagurska Rovelli.  

Calling hours will be held at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Rd.  on Friday, July 8th from 5 to 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Church in Schenectady on Saturday, July 9th 10 AM. Burial will follow Mass at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery in Colonie. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd K9 Rescue, donations can be made at http://www.k9adopt.org. Online condolences at glenvillefuneralhome.com