[Shocked] Ginger Reeder Death Obituary, Resident of Dallas Texas Ginger Reeder

Publish date: 2024-05-03

[Shocked] Ginger Reeder Death – Obituary, Resident of Dallas Texas Ginger Reeder – Discover the extraordinary life of Mary Virginia Reeder, affectionately known as “Ginger,” whose legacy continues to inspire.

Mary Virginia Reeder: A Life Remembered

Early Life and Career

Mary Virginia Reeder, fondly known as Ginger, was a remarkable individual whose life left an indelible mark on those who knew her. Born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, she was deeply influenced by the vibrant culture and warm-hearted people of her hometown. From an early age, Ginger displayed a natural talent for forming deep and lasting friendships, a skill that would shape her entire life. Her magnetic charisma, infectious humor, and undeniable charm were qualities she inherited from her family, and they served as the foundation for her many accomplishments.

Ginger’s journey began at KOKA, the legendary gospel, soul, and blues radio station in Shreveport, where she gained her first employment. It was here that she developed a profound respect for the diverse experiences of others and cultivated her lifelong passion for music. These early experiences laid the groundwork for her future success and shaped her into the extraordinary woman she would become.

Passion for Music and Leadership


Ginger’s love for music and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in people’s lives led her to St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Dallas. During the AIDS crisis of the 1980s, when many churches turned their backs on those affected by the disease, St. Thomas welcomed openly gay individuals and provided them with the spiritual support they desperately needed. Ginger played a pivotal role in establishing an extended-care family for HIV+ patients, offering them a sense of belonging and love during their most challenging moments. Her leadership abilities and unwavering dedication were evident from a young age, and she continued to serve in various leadership roles at St. Thomas for over three decades.

Born in Austin, Texas, Ginger’s birthplace was a testament to her vibrant spirit. Throughout her life, she embraced new experiences and opportunities with open arms. From her early days at the Dallas Museum of Art, where she honed her skills in merchandising and retail, to her 21 years at Neiman Marcus, where she curated the most unique and exciting gifts for the annual Christmas Book, Ginger’s career was a testament to her style, charm, and exceptional talents. Her impact was so profound that even Oprah Winfrey herself acknowledged the significance of Ginger’s role at Neiman Marcus.

Ginger’s legacy lives on through her loving husband, Joe Patterson, and her two accomplished children, James Vroom and Grace Vroom. Her passion for life, her ability to form deep connections, and her unwavering commitment to making a difference continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Mary Virginia Reeder will always be remembered as a remarkable individual who brought joy, laughter, and love to everyone she encountered.

Impact on the Community

Advocacy for HIV+ Patients

Mary Virginia Reeder, affectionately known as Ginger, made a significant impact on the community through her unwavering advocacy for HIV+ patients during the AIDS crisis. At a time when many churches turned their backs on those affected by the disease, Ginger’s compassion and empathy shone through. She played a pivotal role in creating a safe and welcoming space for openly gay individuals at St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Dallas. Recognizing the spiritual needs of HIV+ patients, Ginger established an extended-care family that provided them with the support and love they desperately sought. Her dedication to ensuring that no one felt excluded or judged during their most vulnerable moments was truly remarkable.

Leadership at St. Thomas the Apostle Church


Ginger’s leadership abilities were evident in her long-standing commitment to St. Thomas the Apostle Church. For over three decades, she served in various leadership roles, leaving an indelible mark on the community. Her unwavering dedication, work ethic, and ability to navigate challenging circumstances made her an invaluable asset to the church. Ginger’s charismatic presence and genuine care for others created a sense of unity and belonging among the congregation. Her leadership extended beyond the walls of the church, as she actively sought opportunities to make a positive impact in the lives of those around her. Ginger’s legacy as a compassionate and inspiring leader continues to inspire others to follow in her footsteps.

A Life of Joy and Exploration

Love for Reading, Writing, and Storytelling

Mary Virginia Reeder, known affectionately as Ginger, lived a life filled with joy and a thirst for exploration. One of her greatest passions was reading, which allowed her to embark on countless adventures within the pages of books. Ginger’s love for literature extended beyond reading; she was also an exceptional writer and storyteller. Her words had the power to captivate and transport her audience to different worlds, evoking a range of emotions. Through her writing, Ginger shared her unique perspectives, insights, and experiences, leaving a lasting impact on those who had the pleasure of reading her work.

Creating Lasting Friendships and Connections


Ginger possessed a remarkable ability to create lasting friendships and connections wherever she went. Her magnetic personality and genuine interest in others drew people to her like a magnet. Whether it was through her travels, her involvement in various communities, or her everyday interactions, Ginger had a knack for forging deep and meaningful connections. She believed in the power of human connection and the importance of nurturing relationships. Ginger’s friends were not just acquaintances; they were soulmates who shared in her joys, sorrows, and adventures. Her generous spirit, willingness to listen, and eagerness to share her time and ideas made her a cherished and admired friend to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Legacy and Surviving Family

Ginger’s legacy is one that will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of crossing paths with her. Her impact on the community, her unwavering advocacy, her leadership, and her ability to form deep connections have left an indelible mark on the lives of many. Ginger’s spirit of compassion, love, and joy continues to inspire others to live their lives to the fullest and make a positive difference in the world.

Surviving Family Members

Ginger is survived by her loving husband, Joe Patterson, who stood by her side through thick and thin, sharing in the joys and challenges of life. Her two children, James Vroom of Denver, Colorado, and Grace Vroom of Austin, Texas, carry on her legacy with pride and determination. Both James and Grace have inherited their mother’s passion for making a difference and are poised to make their own mark in the world.

In addition to her immediate family, Ginger is also survived by her stepson, Jacques “Bunky” Vroom, who resides in Dallas, Texas. Her brother, James Reeder, and sister, Elizabeth Neubauer, along with their husbands and children, continue to honor Ginger’s memory and carry her spirit of love and connection forward.

Ginger’s impact reaches far beyond her immediate family, as she touched the lives of countless friends, coworkers, and community members. Her memory lives on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to have known her, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Mary Virginia Reeder, also known as Ginger, passed away at the age of 64 in Dallas, Texas. She was renowned for her role as the fantasy-gift wrangler at Neiman Marcus, where she dedicated herself to finding unique presents for the annual Neiman Marcus Christmas Book. Born and raised in Shreveport, Louisiana, Ginger’s upbringing shaped her charismatic and charming personality. She attributed her success to her early employment at KOKA radio station, where she developed a passion for music. Ginger was also actively involved in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, which provided support to HIV+ patients during the AIDS crisis. She leaves behind a loving family and a legacy of friendship and positive influence.

ncG1vNJzZmikmanBrbHHqKysnV6asbZ61admoKGenLKzedGenJ2domKxpq3ToWY%3D