Virginia W. Andrew of Steamboat Springs died July 25, 2001, at Yampa Valley Medical Center. She was 86.

She was born on April 13, 1915, in Steamboat Springs to the late Sam and Lavina (Ratcliff) Willey.

Virginia ran Farmers Union Insurance for 35 years, starting in 1945, working first out of her home and later had an office in the Squire Building in downtown Steamboat Springs. In 1971, she and Ruth Carver founded the Unique Shop in downtown, behind Lyon’s Drug store. She was a writer and author, and had written columns in the Steamboat Pilot for 52 years called the “Sidney News,” “Whistle Stops” and “Farm Folks.” She was born, raised, lived and ranched on the family homestead in Sidney until 1999.

She is survived by two sons, Chris Andrew and wife Mary Margaret of Gainesville, Fla. and Edwin Andrew and wife Shirley of Steamboat Springs; a daughter-in-law, Rosanne Andrew of Steamboat Springs; grandchildren, Jeff, Shane, Kristi, Suzanne, Jason, Niki, Josh, Joe, Tyler, Jennifer and Ben; great-grandchildren, Sam, Juan and Laura; and a sister, Alice Ralston of Pendleton, Ore.

She was preceded in death by a son, Calvin.

A memorial service was held July 30, 2001, at the United Methodist Church in Steamboat. Rev. Larry Oman officiated. The pianist was Margie Starr and the soloist was Mary Margaret Andrew. Peterson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

A memorial in Virginia’s name may be sent to the Sam Willey Memorial Piano Fund, c/o the United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 773748, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477; the Unique Shop, 31800 C.R. 35; Steamboat Springs, CO 80487 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 789 Sherman Street, Denver, CO 80203.