Virginia A. Bantly

BANTLY – Virginia A., 98, passed away Oct. 24, 2014, at Arbutus Park Manor. Born May 1, 1916, in Johnstown, daughter of Harry and Mina Myers Searl. Her father, a local pharmacist, died in the Spanish Flu Epidemic of 1918. Her mother was left to support Virginia, and her sister, Mary Louise, as a single parent in an age where there was no life insurance or public assistance programs. Virginia’s mother had excellent sewing and tailoring skills, which she used to support her family. In 1955, Virginia married Chalmer H. Bantly, who died in 2008. Together, the couple built a home in the Oakland section of Johnstown, and they traveled the world, making a wonderful life together. She was formerly employed as a secretary for several area businesses including Reese and Bernard Electric and U.S. Steel. She took great pride in the tailoring skills which she learned from her mother, and she used these talents to make her own dresses, suits and coats, as well as the suits of her husband. Virginia and Chalmer were former members of Franklin Street United Methodist Church, and later Beulah United Methodist Church. She was the last surviving member of her family. At her request, there will be no viewing or service. She will be buried in Richland Cemetery. Arrangements by Geisel Funeral Home, Johnstown.

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