Virginia Chanda

Virginia V. Chanda (March 27, 1944 - October 1, 2026) died peacefully in her home after a brief struggle with cancer. She was 82. Born in Chicago, IL she was predeceased by her parents Stephen and Valentine Chanda.

Virginia (Ginny) earned a BA from DePauw University and an MA from the University of Pennsylvania. A senior faculty member on the Verde Campus of Yavapai College, she began her tenure in 1979 and retired 27 years later with full honors as an Emeritus Faculty member. Her primary field was English composition, but she taught courses in the Liberal Studies programs as well. Ginny loved teaching and never stopped learning. She attended University of Cambridge, England, summer school programs continuing her studies in Shakespeare and history. Upon her retirement, Ginny focused on her own writing, publishing nine books. She was a finalist in the New Mexico/Arizona Book Awards for several of her books. She was appreciated and respected by colleagues, students, and friends.

There will be a memorial service on November 21st, 10:00 AM at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 889 First South St., Clarkdale, AZ. Donations in Ginny’s honor can be made to the Arizona Episcopal Schools Foundation (https://www.az-esf.org/donate/ or P.O. Box 12927, Tucson, Arizona 85732-2927) or the Yavapai College Foundation Virginia Chanda Scholarship (Yavapai College Foundation 1100 E. Sheldon Street, Building 19Prescott, AZ 86301; foundation@yc.edu)