Virginia Hope Bounds, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and lifelong friend, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on December 8, 2025, at the age of 94. After years of looking across the pond at the home they shared, she is now reunited with her beloved husband, Charlie Bounds, in heaven, along with her favorite little Pomeranian, TJ, cuddled close by their side. Virginia was born in Canada on July 19, 1931, and at the age of 14, she moved with her family to the United States, where she spent the rest of her life. 

She grew up in Buena, Washington, and attended Toppenish High School, where she met the love of her life, Charlie. The two were married on October 25, 1948, beginning a lifelong journey of love, partnership, and devotion. Family was the cornerstone of Virginia’s life. She was a dedicated and loving mother to her daughter, Becky Waldman, and her son, Steven Bounds. Her love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was immeasurable, and she took great pride in being a guiding presence in their lives. 

Together with Charlie and her cousin Dale East, Virginia also opened her heart and home to over 100 children as foster parents, providing a safe, nurturing environment filled with hope, love, and consistency. These “bonus children” were blessed to have found a place of comfort, support, and care with Virginia, Charlie, and Dale. Virginia’s greatest joy was hosting large family gatherings. She loved nothing more than bringing her extended family together, whether it was for a holiday or just a weekend getaway. The family cabin, often filled with laughter and love, was where many cherished memories were made—whether enjoying massive breakfasts, racing on snowmobiles, or spending hours playing cards with loved ones. Her home was always a place of warmth, where everyone felt welcome and special. 

Virginia’s professional life was also marked by her entrepreneurial spirit and close family ties. In the early years of her marriage, Virginia and Charlie, along with her dear cousin Dale East, purchased Zillah Food Bi's in Zillah, Washington. Together, they operated the grocery store for many years, creating lasting memories and relationships within their community. Later, Charlie and Dale expanded their work together by starting B&E Produce, a venture that Virginia supported wholeheartedly. 

Virginia was preceded in death by the love of her life, Charlie Bounds; her mother, Bernice Eshleman; father, Loren Eshleman; brothers, Ralph and Arvel Eshleman; her son, Steven Bounds; her grandson, Derek Michael Hendrickson Bounds; and her grandmother, Carrie East. Virginia is survived by her daughter, Becky Waldman, and her lifelong companion and cousin, Dale East, who were both by her side, caring for her with love and devotion until the very end. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Ryan Waldman, Tara Waldman, Shawn Waldman, Stephanie Miller (Blake), and Charli Bounds; her great-grandchildren, Paxton Waldman, Declan Waldman, Kya Waldman, Teegan Waldman, Ashton Waldman, Braelynn Waldman, and Anaiya Barajas; her two sisters, Joyce Nobbs-Buell and Marion King; as well as three foster children who have remained close through the years: Robert Gray, Robert Farnsworth, and William Barnes. In honoring Virginia’s life, the family invites all who knew and loved her to gather in remembrance, to share stories, laughter, and the many memories that reflect the depth of her impact. 

Virginia believed deeply in the importance of togetherness, and it is fitting that her life be celebrated in the company of those she cherished. Virginia’s strength, generosity, and resilience were evident in every chapter of her life. Whether caring for children in need, opening her home to family and friends, or quietly supporting those she loved, she lived with purpose and grace. Her kindness was not loud, but it was steadfast, and those fortunate enough to know her felt it deeply. Though she will be dearly missed, Virginia’s family takes comfort in knowing that her love continues to surround them—in traditions passed down, in lessons learned, and in the enduring bonds she worked so hard to build. Her legacy is one of compassion, devotion, and unwavering love, and it will live on through generations. 

A graveside service will take place at 11:00 am on February 7th at the Zillah Cemetery, followed by a celebration lunch at the Zillah Civic Center between 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm.