11/26/2025
Long time resident of Alaska, Margaret “Peg” Elizabeth McVicker Virgin, 93, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025 surrounded by family at her daughter’s home in Leola, Pennsylvania where she had been living since 2019.
Peg was born in Folcroft, Pa., on June 18th 1932. She received her nursing education from Presbyterian Hospital in Philadelphia Pa, married her high school sweetheart Joe Virgin on July 16th 1955 and with their desire to serve Jesus by serving others, they left for Alaska in July of 1956 as missionaries with Central Alaskan Missions from 1956-1977. They served the communities of Gulkana, Ellamar/Tatitlek, Kenny Lake and Chistochina. And they were an active part of the Mendeltna Community Chapel after moving to Nelchina in 1977.
Peg’s heart was for her family. She was a beautiful example of Jesus’ heart for the lost. She served as a nurse at Crossroads Medical Center, formerly known as Faith Hospital, as well as being on call for medical emergencies within the communities. She loved the word of God and was an amazing teacher, using her gifts to teach Sunday school, Vacation Bible School and touching the community through her ladies’ bible studies that she led and was a part of.
Peg was a competitor and an avid sports fan of anything Philadelphia, but even more any sports her children or grandchildren were involved in.
She was known for her firm handshake, and she modeled hospitality with her open door to anyone in need with a cup of coffee and whatever she had in her cupboard.
Peg had an amazing gift of administration – lovingly called “the General” or “Sergeant Virgin” by some family members and colleagues at work.
Most of all Peg will be remembered by her heart for family and friends to come to know and love her Jesus.
Peg is survived by her 2 sons: Dan (Beth) of Palmer, AK, Joey (Teri) of Glennallen, AK; and daughter Sandy (Tim) Lapp of Leola Pa.; 12 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-granddaughters. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe; her parents Hugh and Jean McVicker; sister Jean (Gordon) Gurney; and great-granddaughter Hazel Lapp.
We so valued and appreciated her entire team at Hospice & Community Care and especially the love and care of her nurse Judy Ashley.
A celebration of life will take place at Acts Covenant Fellowship Church Strasburg, 46 W. Main St. Strasburg Pa., (rear building) on December 11th, 2025 at 11am and later next summer in Alaska.