Virginia "Ginny" (Porter) Bateman

Virginia “Ginny” Porter Bateman, age 63, passed away Saturday, October 7, 2023, at her home. She was a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, cousin, granddaughter, aunt, niece and friend.

Ginny was born January 26, 1960, in Abingdon, Virginia, to Norris Neil and Ella Frances Williams Porter. She grew up in Durham, North Carolina, graduating from Charles E. Jordan High School. Ginny graduated with Honors from Meredith College double-majoring in Psychology and Social Work. After eight years as a Social Worker with two North Carolina state agencies, she began a 29-year career as a Special Education teacher in Scotland and Hoke Counties. She earned her educator credentials while simultaneously teaching and taking classes at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and Fayetteville State University. Upon her retirement in 2020, Ginny began part-time work as a private adult home assistant and a front-desk receptionist at the Laurinburg Hampton Inn.

Ginny was predeceased by her parents. She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Vince, her daughters Virginia (Ginna) of Raleigh and Olivia (Livie) of Charleston, South Carolina, her sister Frances Barbour (Victor) of Clayton, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and her beloved canine children Bella and Tobin Heath.

Ginny had a loving spirit, and took pride in serving her students and clients throughout her work career with tender, loving attention. She offered this same affection and attention in her retirement career pursuits.

Ginny’s world revolved around her family, particularly Ginna, Livie and Vince. She supported them completely, and was always there with a smile, a hug, a word of wisdom, and with an ever-encouraging temperament. Ginny enjoyed, and was always prepared for, quick trips to Raleigh or Charleston to see Ginna or Livie, and to the beach or southwest Virginia mountains with her sister, Frances, and the several-times-a-week lunches or iced tea dates with her best friends Carol and Lu Ann. Ginny loved traveling near and far with her family and friends. Interestingly, she considered herself a home- body who loved nothing better than being curled up with Bella, a good book, or a good crime or chick movie on TV.

Ginny had a special place in her heart for animals, especially dogs and cats who needed a home. She served for several years on the Scotland County Humane Society Board, and provided a home for many needy pets over the years, offering love and attention and receiving the same in return. Ginny supported the United Way of Scotland County for many years, and was honored with an individual award in 2013.

Ginny was a spiritual person who joined First United Methodist Church in Laurinburg in 1984, and was a reliable and prepared Youth Leader and Sunday School teacher. Ginny could always be counted on to help with Bereavement meals and, most recently, as Secretary of the Church Board of Trustees. She encouraged Livie, Ginna and Vince in their spiritual lives, as well. She treasured her Emmaus walk experience.

Ginny’s Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary of First United Methodist Church in Laurinburg. Her family will greet friends afterward in the Church Fellowship Hall.

Memorials to honor Ginny are requested for the Scotland County Humane Society, 1401 West Boulevard, Laurinburg, NC, or to the First United Methodist Church, 101 West Church Street, Laurinburg, NC 28352.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Services of Laurinburg is assisting Ginny’s family with her services.

Online condolences can be made at www.bumgarnerfunerals.com.

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