Obituaries
Virginia Payne McCreary, 34
August 15, 2021
A most unique and wonderful life ended too soon on August 15th, 2021 when Ginny McCreary passed away following a courageous and unrelenting battle with a rare form of Sarcoma Cancer at the age of 34. Ginny passed peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family who held hands while wiping away tears of sorrow. Yet only the night before the very same people surrounded Ginny while wiping away tears of laughter.
Because Ginny was funny.
Remembering Ginny without laughing is like remembering her beloved Ocean Isle Beach without the ocean. Even in her final grave days, Ginny elicited more laughter than tears from her caretakers. Whether she was providing sharp-tongued commentary on current events, or just correcting something in the room that was annoying her, Ginny could not help but be funny every few minutes.
This is who Ginny always was. Back to her High School Days at Manheim Township with the Seven and her college days at Elon, Ginny brought an indescribable wit to every situation she was in. It could only be described as Ginny because the workings of her brain defied logic and classification, but you never wanted to miss what she said next.
It’s an erroneous cliché to say they broke the mold when they made Ginny: More accurate to say they never finished building the mold. Ginny was always a bit off in the most wonderous way possible. Except when it came to bringing sunshine to the lives of those around her.
Because Ginny was loving.
Ginny leaves behind two children – Elener “Ellie” August (5) and Frances “Frannie” Baker (3). She loved them more than any measure could quantify. Ginny truly flourished when becoming a mother: it was her calling and it’s impossible to overstate the impact she had on the girls. Exhausted and battered from treatment, their mom never showed those signs when playing with her little girls. Every ounce of love in her heart poured into those two kids and they never received a drop of difference between the time before she was sick and after.
Her husband, Ryan M. McCreary, shared in her love for their children and for each other. It’s rare to see a couple so effortlessly love one another the way Ginny and Ryan did. They were best friends, complimented each other perfectly and loved being with each other more than anything. From Friday night dinners out, to frequent binge watches, to tolerating each others’ musical tastes and sports fandoms – their love was apparent and aspirational to everyone around them.
Ginny’s love extended far beyond her immediate family. She loved being a member of the larger McCreary family, fitting in from day one. Her dogs Larry and Ozzy got more love than any canine on the planet. To those who knew her well, Ginny’s loving nature was abundant and in no way surprising.
Because Ginny learned from the best.
Ginny and her mom, Roberta “Robbie” Little Payne, were best friends. While that is the plot of ‘Gilmore Girls’ (their favorite show), it was actually true! They talked and texted like teenagers throughout Ginny’s entire adulthood sharing more candid conversations than a million mothers and daughters. Ginny’s mom is truly one-in-a-million.
And that sense of humor? It came from her father August “ Gus” Lueders Payne, a man of too many stories to tell, but whose legacy was manifest in his daughter’s joyful personality and the way she always tried to lift the spirits of whoever was in the room.
And Ginny will continue to do just that.
Because Ginny lives on.
While Sarcoma may have taken Ginny’s body, her spirit and humor will live on through her children, her family and more friends than space will allow to list. For somebody who pursued life with purpose and passionate abandon, it’s fitting that Ginny is survived not only by so many people who love her so much, but has also left a legacy through Spin4Gin: her charity dedicated to finding a cure for Sarcoma.
She would like to thank everyone at the Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Penn Medicine and Memorial Sloan Kettering for providing expert care in helping her battle this terrible disease, and extend her deepest gratitude to everyone who supported and prayed for her throughout this time. Whenever you see a sunflower or a cardinal, please think of Ginny.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, August 20, 2021 at 11AM with Rev. Dan Snyder officiating, under the tent at the Charles F. Snyder Funeral, Jr., Funeral Home & Crematory 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. There will not be a visitation prior to the Memorial Service, however we encourage friends to arrive between 10am-11am to take a seat and gather together. The McCreary and Payne family kindly request that attendees dress casual and to wear a mask out of respect for Ginny and other immunocompromised attendees.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ginny’s memory may be made to her Sarcoma research efforts to www.Spin4Gin.com/donate-now or venmo @spin4gin.
Ginny’s Memorial Service will be Livestreamed below and recorded and will be available on this obituary page where you can also leave the family online condolences, please visit
SnyderFuneralHome.com
Charles F. Snyder, Jr.
Funeral Home & Crematory
717.560.5100
Leave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
August 23, 2021
Dear Families of Ginny and Ryan and the girls, You all helped Ginny so much and so well. I am proud to be a friend to Jeanne anda Bob McCreary who kep me informed of this journey. I so admired Ginny’s resolve through treatment, her care for her family, and her ability to keep on going – like taking family vacations! What an amazing life.
You all have large and wonderful families to surround you with support now in the next part of this story. Sincerely, Julie Bucher
August 22, 2021
Dear Robbie and Gus, Words cannot express how sorry we are to hear of Ginny’s passing. We are thinking of you and are praying for strength for you and your family. It is so very hard to loose someone you love, especially your precious daughter. You are amazing parents and your love for her radiated in her love for her family. We are here if you need anything at all. Our heartfelt prayers are with your family and Ginny’s family. Your neighbors at Ocean Isle beach love the Payne’s and offer our deepest condolences. Kevin and Sindy Gray.
August 22, 2021
To the McCreary and Payne Family,
Our sincere condoleneces for your loss, knowing the pain our children Heather and Stu Smith are in right now, and how Ginny has touched their lives, we can’t imagine what you all are feeling right now. We are so sorry!
May her memory be a blessing for you all, and may she rest in peace.
Barry J Appelbaum
August 21, 2021
Robbie, Gus, Andrew, and Ryan- I was a student at Elon with Ginny’s parents. Although I only saw Ginny a couple times at Elon Homecomings and did not know her well, from everything I heard at yesterday’s service and have read in the obituary, I can definitely say Ginny was a perfect blend of you….Robbie & Gus. Being a father of two daughters (ages 32 & 28) myself, I can only imagine the sadness you must be feeling. I believe God will ultimately provide all of you with years of wonderful memories as well as a sense of peace. Ryan- it’s very apparent you will have lots of loving support for not only your two precious daughters, but also for you personally. Love and prayers to each of you. May Ginny RIP and no longer struggle with pain. Fil Stidham
August 21, 2021
We wish to send our deepest condolences after learning about the passing of your daughter,Ginny. Our heart goes out to your loss. Her obituary and video tribute was the most beautiful that we have ever read. We wish that we had had the opportunity to have known her. What a beautiful, brave, loving , and remarkable daughter, mother, friend, wife ,and sister. Thank you for sharing her beauty, strength and wit. She is safe and at peace with our dear Lord. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Deb and Bobby Shaub
August 21, 2021
Gus and Robbie–
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of your daughter.
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Steve and Pat Crognale
August 20, 2021
To my friend Ryan and the families of Ryan and Ginny,
I am heartbroken for your loss. It seems like only yesterday that we were dancing and eating fried green tomatoes at your wedding. Ginny’s bravery and initiative toward fighting her own sarcoma while also raising a family and being a champion for others in the same fight is nothing short of inspiring. It was a life well-lived. Sending my love, Andrew Simonelli
August 20, 2021
We met Ginny through our daughter, Shaina. I noticed what a good friend she was. She seemed to be such a caring, gentle soul. Our heart breaks for Ryan and their girls who will no longer have her. But it is such a loss for all who knew her. Prayers and good vibes for all of her family and friends. Dean and Cindy Hogg
August 20, 2021
Robbie, Gus, Ryan, Ellie, Frannie, and Andrew:
I am filled with sadness at Ginny’s passing. I am so thankful that I had a chance to know her. I, really we (the S June Smith Leadership), tried to recruit her to work with us at the S June Smith Center. Her intelligence, creativity, and compassion were immediately apparent.
The next days, weeks, months, and years ahead will be challenging. Know that I am praying for you and sending my love.
Ken Harrison
August 20, 2021
Thank you for helping us to know about sweet Ginny. We love the sharing of her beauty, wit and strength through the service and video. She will always be well loved. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Glenn and Nancy Hummerston
August 20, 2021
Ginny was a superstar mom, always on top of communication and correspondence with her daughters’ teachers. Really a school’s dream parent. Ellie and Frannie were an absolute delight to have in class and we can see where they got it from. Although only briefly, it was a pleasure to know Ginny.
-Landis Woods Nature Preschool Staff
August 20, 2021
Dear Robbie and family,
‘That was the most beautiful obituary I think I’ve ever read! What a remarkable young woman she was… just from the funeral service alone, you could tell how loved and cherished she was… your memories in grief are a form of love and that love is the basis of your healing. I’m so very sorry for this incredible loss, my heart goes out to you all.
Stephanie Zuckerman
August 20, 2021
My deepest condolences! Ginny sure was amazing, kind, loving woman and one of a kind. I will always cherish the memories I had with her growing up!
Christine powell
August 20, 2021
Gus,
I’m deeply sorry to learn about your daughter Virginia’s passing and even though I didn’t meet her or her family, my heart shrinks and goes heavy with the thoughts of your loss.
To all the family, my sincere condolence on these very hard days; words can’t reflect your sorrow, but I hope you all can find comfort and peace in knowing your beloved Virginia will stay with you forever.
Alfredo Nieto
August 20, 2021
To the Payne an McCreary family. I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful daughter Ginny I am sure she will be missed by many my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family karen davis
August 20, 2021
Gus and Robbie – so very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Stephen Kuffler
August 20, 2021
Dear Robbie, Gus and Andrew,
We are so sorry to hear of Ginny’s passing. Ginny fought a courageous fight against a terrible disease. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May she now rest in eternal piece.
Leslie and Bruce Tahsler
August 19, 2021
Gus and family,
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. May all of you be gently held in God’s hands.
Stephanie Carnahan-Mccurdy &Tom McCurdy
August 19, 2021
Dear Robbie and famiy, I hope you can feel the love, comfort and peace between the words of condolence and what words cannot relay. My heart is filled for you at your loss. What a remarkable young woman as described in her obituary. Wishing you strength and peace at this time.
Roseanne Rogers
August 19, 2021
Robbie and Gus my heart goes out to you in this season of grief that has arrived with Ginny’s passing. With sympathy, Carla Stull
Carla l Stull
August 19, 2021
Gus, Robbie, the Payne and McCready family members,
We are sadden that Ginny has passed…she gave all who knew her a ‘freshness in the moment’ via her gregarious persona. Remember the good time visiting Ginny and her roomates in their off-campus home at Elon University…Gus and I had a memorable moment with those fine young ladies during Homecoming weekend, as Ginny kept us in high spirts exhibiting a beautiful smile and quick wit. Know, that was how Ginny lived her life…in the moment, providing everyone with a ‘freshness in the air.’ Janice and I have had all of you in our thoughts and prayers…that will continue. With love, Zene & Janice. AEKDB
August 19, 2021
Jeanne – my heart breaks for you and your family. I kept hoping for a miracle, but know that Ginny was held up by your love, support and comfort during her courageous battle. What a remarkable woman she was! Hopefully, in time, your many beautiful memories of Ginny will begin to soften your intense grief. My thhoughts and prayers are with you. Debbie Wrightson
August 19, 2021
Wow! What a special obituary for a very special person. I did not have the privilege of knowing Ginny, but feel I met her through her father, Gus, who I worked with for many years.
Gus & your precious family, my heart aches for you all. I hope you’ll draw comfort in knowing Ginny is at the Big Dance now, where death has no sting and she will continue her influence from a much higher perch!
I am lifting you all up in continuous prayer.
Grace & Peace
August 19, 2021
Ryan, Ellie, Frannie, Robbie & Gus~It is with such a heavy heart that we extend our condolences. Watching & experiencing the “7” girlfriends navigate life, Township, boyfriends, weddings, children and now the passing of one of their own…These friends for life were serious about protecting their own. May God give them the strength to carry on Ginny’s legacy through her extended family and friends. Rest in Peace sweet lady and know that you were loved.
Gina Louro
August 18, 2021
Gus and Robbie, Our hearts go out to you and your family. Ginny was a bright light in the lives of those she touched
Russ and Chris Stabler
August 18, 2021
Gus and Robbie,
Billie and I send our sincerest condolences. Our hearts and prayers all with all of your family.
Clay and Billie Frazier
August 18, 2021
Dear Ryan, Robbie and Gus,
We are heartbroken to learn of Ginny’s passing. We are thankful to have reconnected with her in her adult years when she worked with Steve at Godfrey. I connected with Ginny at a few of the Godfrey team Chrismas gatherings and appreciated her honest openness on multiple topics. Steve was grateful to have had a few minutes with Ginny at the recent golf tournament. We send you love and prayers as you grieve Ginny’s loss.
Jill and Steve Graham
August 18, 2021
I was fortunate enough to have met Ginny when she was just a little girl – eating cucumbers and playing on the swing-set. My fond memories are the years spent babysitting Ginny and Andrew – running around with them, the Hendrix crew and my buddies Mike and Andy, all at the end of the alley. Ginny stole our hearts as such a sweet child and grew into a smart, strong & beautiful woman. Gus, Robbie, Andrew, Ryan, Ellie & Frannie, Grandview Heights will never forget Ginny … from Helen Ave to Pleasure Rd & Grandview Blvd, she’ll be in our hearts forever XOXOXOX
Samantha Smith Seifried
August 18, 2021
Dear Ryan. I am so sorry for your loss. I’m at a loss for words. I know you will be a wonderful Daddy to your daughters. God Bless to both families. My heart goes out to you! Derek’s Aunt Jane.
August 18, 2021
Gus – I am so sorry for you and your family .I got to meet your lovely daughter once when she came to my house with some friends from Elon visiting my son during Christmas vacation .She looked like you . Prayers to you and your family .Neil Farmer
August 17, 2021
Ginny, My heart is aching. YOU are loved and cherished. It was an honor taking care of you. It was an honor knowing you. I’ll see you later sweetheart🐝
Jojo
August 17, 2021
I am a nurse at Ann B Barshinger Cancer Institute where Ginny got her treatments. She was such a beautiful soul. Not one staff member didn’t know her kind soul. We will all miss her so much. Prayers to her family and friends.
Maddy Lewis
August 17, 2021
Gus and Robbie,
We are sending love, hugs and strength to both of you and your family. You are in our thoughts. May you find peace in your memories of Ginny.
Jill and Jim Dickson
August 17, 2021
Robie, Gus and Andrew,
Larry and I are thinking of you and keeping you and the McCreary family in our prayers. We only knew Ginny as a little girl and middle schooler and had the pleasure of having her in Sunday School. The description of her that you have posted brought a smile as we recalled what an original girl she was and obviously continued to be as a woman. You have our deepest condolences. Jan Masland and Larry Keating
August 17, 2021
When Ginny was in high school, I had the great privilege to teach such a memorable student. Her strong leadership and spirited spunk always added a very special dimension to the classes. She touched so many lives by just being “Ginny.” May God grant her family peace throughout these very difficult days.
Nancy Kurtz
August 17, 2021
Payne and McCreary family,
I want to express my sincere condolences as it wasn’t too long ago I lost my step-dad from cancer. I know the sadness and loss that is felt after a beautiful gentle soul leaves before their time should have ended. Ginny and I were friends in high school, but have since lost touch. I have fond memories of her from high school as she was always quirky, funny, and genuinely nice to everyone. I’m so sorry about your loss. Sending love and strength to all.
Helen Paltenghi (Bonfessuto)
August 17, 2021
Sending prayers and much love to all.
You are all in my heart.
Cindy Tew
August 17, 2021
Dear Andrew and family, Our hearts and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Michael and I did not have the pleasure of knowing Ginny, but after reading her heartfelt obituary, we are so sad we did not. Please accept our sympathy, and we definitely will think of Ginny each time we see a sunflower!! Heidi and Michael Cohen
August 17, 2021
Gus – I am so very sorry for this unimaginable loss. May God comfort you and your entire family during this time of grief. God bless
Erik Greenbaum
- Services
- Friday, August 20, 2021
- 11:00 AM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 3110 Lititz Pike
- Lititz, PA 17543
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