Virginia Gaisser Balser's wish to fly came true in her peaceful departure from this life March 16, 2018. Virginia, 96, was in love with living and enjoyed being "in the middle of it all." She cherished her family, friends, and activities, both in McComb and at Whealdon Estates Retirement Community in Baton Rouge, empowering others through her delight for conversation as well as her capacity for listening. And with her, there was always laughter. Despite having macular degeneration in her later years, she led a vibrant, illuminated life. Born in Evansville, Indiana, Jan. 10, 1922, Virginia was the daughter of Harry Arther Gaisser and Ida Dorgan Granger. She spent most of her childhood in New Orleans and always harbored a great love for that city. Following her graduation from St. Mary of The Pines in Chatawa, she worked in the dental clinic of LaGarde Army Hospital in New Orleans as the administrative colonel's secretary. Later, when the hospital closed, she worked as an eligibility clerk for the Veterans Administration on Baronne Street. In 1945 she reconnected with classmate Johnny Balser at a SMP high school reunion in New Orleans. They began dating, married in 1948, and opened a photography studio, first in Ville Platte, La., and two years later, moved to Johnny's hometown of McComb. For more than 37 years Virginia managed Balser's Studio, scheduling appointments and handling the bookkeeping, along with retouching and hand-coloring photographs. Since the studio was part of the family residence, she was always there to welcome her two daughters, Valerie and Mary Agnes, home from school. She was also active in the operation of Balser Christmas Tree Farm for more than 20 years. She seemed to find time for everything and everyone. Her longtime Tuesday night ritual was playing bridge with a group of diehards. Among her favorite activities was her 30-year captivation with line dancing. Virginia walked regularly for exercise, served as a Girl Scout assistant troop leader, and found great fulfillment doing water aerobics. She created needlework projects and nurtured an infinity of plants. She was especially proud of her large, lush Fluffy Boston Ferns that drew many admirers seeking cuttings. Over the years she participated in organizations such as the Altar Society of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church (where she was a member for more than 60 years), Nautilus Club, Four Seasons Club, and the Republican Women's Club. She also served two terms as election commissioner under Mayor James C. "J.C." Woods. She cherished her responsibility as an associate of the School Sisters of Notre Dame and always looked forward to their get-togethers. A regular at Miss Mattie's Munch-A-Lunch, Virginia was involved in adult literacy programs and was a volunteer for Horizon Hospice. One of her favorite roles was "the popcorn lady of Aston Court," visiting the residents and serving them the weekly treat on Thursdays. She showed her concern for others through daily telephones calls and visits, especially to those who were elderly or infirmed. She relished family vacations as well as trips to Jackson, the Coast, and New Orleans. Longer journeys to Europe brought her great joy and she often said "Go" was her middle name. Virginia also delighted in fashion, animals, Mardi Gras parades, The French Quarter, thrift store bargains, seafood, pralines, and egg nog. She returned often to her beloved SMP for retreats and visits. During her last days she spoke softly of being ready to fly away. Now she has, leaving her legacy of kindness, gratitude and love.

She was preceded in death by her father, Harry Arther Gaisser, and mother, Ida Dorgan Granger.

She is survived by her husband, John Lyons Balser, daughters Valerie Balser Winn (Frank) of Gautier, and Mary Agnes Balser Hough (Paul) of Baton Rouge, La., her grandchildren, Jeff Hough (Amy) of Little Rock, Ark., Alison Hough Quebedeaux (Luke) of Havelock, N.C., six great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation is Monday, March 19, 2018 at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church from 10 a.m. until a Mass of Christian Burial at noon with Father Brian Kaskie officiating. Interment will be in Hollywood Cemetery under the direction of Sharkey Funeral Home in Summit.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, Kansas 66675-8515.

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