Virginia Earle Bufkin, lovingly known as “Nana” to so many, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at the age of 92. Born on May 21, 1933, near the Midland/Odessa region of Texas, Virginia spent her early years moving throughout the state before her family eventually settled in Pasadena, Texas. Those formative years shaped the resilience, warmth, and adaptability that would define her life.

As young women, Virginia embraced life with curiosity and energy, carrying a deep love for people and a natural gift for nurturing others. In 1964, she married the love of her life, John Bufkin Sr., beginning a devoted partnership that would span decades and leave a lasting legacy. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and the purpose, raising ten children. Their home was never limited to just their own family- over the years, they opened their home doors as foster parents for approximately fifteen years, caring for many children in need, eventually adopting three.

Virginia’s role as a mother was the cornerstone of her life. She spent her early years as a devoted stay-at-home mom, pouring herself into raising her children. Later, her adventurous and multifaceted spirit led her to explore many paths- from belly dancing classes to taking pilot lessons- before ultimately finding her calling in real estate. After moving to Aransas Pass in 1975, alongside John’s welding supply business for more than 35 years.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Virginia was deeply involved in her community. She ran for mayor of Aransas Pass, served for many years as chairman of the Planning and Zoning Committee, and was an active member of the Aransas Pass Women’s Club. She also opened her home to several foreign exchange students from around the world, extending her care and hospitality across cultures and borders.

 But above all else, Virginia will be remembered for the way she loved people. While her grandchildren knew her as “Nana,” that name quickly extended far beyond her own family. Around town, to friends, neighbors, and even strangers, she became “everyone’s Nana.” Her home was a place where all were welcome, where children were treated like her own, and where love was given freely and abundantly. She had a rare gift for maki8ng people feel seen, valued, and cared for- no matter who they were.

Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Bufkin, Sr.; her sons, Steven Craig Starkey, Terry Starkey, John Bufkin, Jr. and Richard Bufkin; and her son-in-law, Tye Bralley.

She is survived by her children, David Bufkin,Sr., Pam Hicks (John), Regina Ives (Russell), Elizabeth Bralley, Alicia Bustamante (Joe), David Bufkin, Jr. and Blake Bufkin; her daughter-in-law, Mary Bufkin, along with her large and loving legacy of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

The most defining and enduring part of Virginia’s life was her unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Since 195, she was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church in Aransas Pass, where her life stood as a testimony to her deep love for her Savior. She lived her faith daily- not only in words, but through her actions, her kindness, and her constant desire to lead others to know Christ. She spoke openly about her salvation and the hope she carried, and she made it her mission to share that hope with everyone she encountered.

Virginia’s life was one service, compassion, and steadfast faith. She leaves behind not only a large family but a community forever touched by her love. Her legacy lived on in the countless lives she nurtured, the faith she shared, and the name she so beautifully embodied- “Nana” to all.

A time of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at First Baptist Church in Aransas Pass. The family will receive guests beginning at 12:00 noon. Funeral services will follow, 1:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Ian Caceres. Interment will take place at 2:00 PM in Prairie View Cemetery, Aransas Pass.

A guestbook is available online at www.resthavenfunerals@yahoo.com

Arrangements and care are entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home of Aransas Pass.