SPRINGFIELD – Virginia Mildred Keyes, 91, passed away Saturday, February 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Virginia was born in Alton, Illinois on May 13, 1934. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dallas A. and Anna Louise (Thomas) Hayes, and her brother, Dallas Thomas Hayes.

Virginia graduated from Feitshans High School and attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She devoted more than 40 years to Franklin Life Insurance Company, where she was known for her strong work ethic.

An avid reader and lifelong learner, she especially enjoyed The Atlantic and the works of Louise Penny, Donna Leon, and especially Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. She had a sharp mind - balancing her checkbook to the penny and completing Sudoku puzzles in pen. Virginia took her civic duty seriously, being sure to study candidates and referendums before casting a vote.

Virginia loved to travel and treasured time with family. She was a devoted mother to Kimberly Keyes Hergett (David C. Hergett, Jr.) and a doting, proud grandmother to Lynsey and Emily, who were her greatest joys.

Virginia is survived by her sister, Dianne Blanco (Jim Louis Blanco); nieces Annette Hayes, Gretchen "Gretel" O'Hagan, Lili Hayes and Laurie Jennifer Blanco (Todd Hurst); and several great-nieces and nephews; as well as many dear long-time friends.

Virginia will be remembered for her sense of humor, intelligence, kindness and deep love for her family.

Per her wishes, a private family Celebration of Life will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics Illinois.