Virginia Leslie | Obit

Virginia Jean (Jones) Leslie

September 26, 1951 – February 20, 2026

Virginia Jean (Jones) Leslie passed away in her Auburn home on February 20, 2026, at the age of 74. Her passing marks the end of a decade long battle with Parkinson’s disease, during which she was lovingly cared for by her husband until the very end.

Virginia was born on September 26, 1951 in Enumclaw, WA, to parents Jack and Marlene Jones. She was the oldest of five children, often helping to care for her younger siblings on the family’s dairy farm. She attended Auburn High School and was involved in various activities including the Senior annual staff, and like a true farmer’s daughter, the Dairy Princess competition in March of 1969. Virginia graduated several months later and went on to work for Dr. Shaw in Kent until 1977.

She then moved to California to attend San Diego State University where she received her nursing degree in 1982. Virginia fondly recalled memories of her time in California, including spending time with friends, waitressing at a Country Western cocktail bar, and roller skating around San Diego.

Virginia returned to Washington where she married fellow AHS alum, Charles Leslie in 1984, and welcomed stepdaughter Melissa into her life. Chuck and Virginia had two more daughters; Sarah, born in 1986, and Katy, born in 1989. Virginia continued in her natural role as a caretaker through both motherhood and her nursing career. She enjoyed hosting family parties, and volunteering with Girl Scouts and the Auburn First United Methodist Church as a Sunday school teacher alongside Chuck. She also loved to support her children’s various interests including attending choir concerts, sporting events, and school activities. Virginia’s patients and fellow employees at the Auburn MultiCare clinic looked forward to seeing her throughout her two decades as a nurse there. She leaves a legacy of caring for others and celebrating the joyful moments of life with her loved ones.

In her free time, Virginia enjoyed visiting antique stores and holiday bazaars with her Mother, Marlene. She enjoyed trips to Ocean Shores, playing slots at the casino, and going for walks around the neighborhood with husband Chuck. Although she was unable to do these things at the end of her life, Virginia and Chuck still enjoyed watching old movies and TV shows together and listening to music.

Virginia is preceded in death by her parents and her younger brother Brian. She is survived by her husband, children, and grandchildren- Justine and Oliver Tilley, Penny and Knox Voorhees, and Caroline and Jacob Birkedahl. Although we are grateful that she has finally found peace in her heavenly body, we will miss Mom dearly.