Obituary of Virginia Lea Miranda

Virginia Lea Miranda This has been a difficult year for many people because of COVID-19, political drama and civil unrest. For our family, none of that comes close to the tragedy of unexpectedly losing Virginia Lea (Hodges) Miranda on August 17, 2020. Her life mattered to us. And while we probably won’t riot, loot or torch any buildings to express our pain, we are anguished beyond words that she is gone. Born on September 24, 1946 in El Monte, CA, Virginia was the ninth of ten siblings. As you can imagine, that experience helped her develop a good sense of humor and a keen nose for B.S., both of which were instrumental in later raising her own two children. Virginia graduated from Arroyo High School in 1964. She was married to Billie Mills Miranda from October 3, 1964 until his untimely death in a military training accident on May 13, 1984. During those years, she must have made literally hundreds of tacos, tamales and treats for his Army buddies along with family and friends. While they may not have had much, there was always room at their table for one or two (or three or five) more. Theirs was the house where neighborhood kids went to hang out and where family gathered. Virginia’s care for others extended beyond her family and friends. In her career as a human resources administrator for the Sears Corporation, she worked hard to make sure each person who came to her received the assistance, answers and benefits they deserved. After her retirement, she moved to Chino Hills, CA and ultimately settled in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Virginia loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She truly lived well, laughed often and loved much. She was also a gifted crafter, card-maker and scrap-booker. Her creative talent was surpassed only by her modesty about the incredible things she made. Locally, she is well known for her card making classes and the handmade scrubbies she sold at the swap meet. Some of the homeless in the community will remember Virginia and her husband William for sharing trust, compassion and meals. A true giver, Virginia continued to help others beyond the end of her life by donating her organs. It is hard to put into words how much Virginia meant to so many people. When asked to describe her, William simply said, “She was the love of my life.” Virginia is survived by her husband of 35 years, William Cole Bulkley; siblings Linda Amende, Delbert Hodges and Jessie Hodges; children Billy Miranda and Lisa Miranda, along with their spouses; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and dog Bailey. Due to current circumstances, the family will not be holding a memorial service at this time. Those who wish to honor Virginia’s life and memory are encouraged to make a donation to the American Heart Association (heart.org) in her name. Services were entrusted to the care of Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home. Thoughts and condolences can be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.